subluxation

noun

Etymology: From French subluxation, from New Latin subluxatio, from subluxare (“to subluxate, to partially displace”) + -atio (“-ation: forming abstract nouns”), from sub- (“sub-: under, below, lesser”) + luxare (“to dislocate; to displace”) after the model of Ancient Greek παράρθρημα (parárthrēma). Equivalent to sub- + luxation.

1. A partial dislocation of a joint, in which the articulating surfaces remain in partial contact.

   “The patient experienced subluxations of his right ulna, his lower right rear molar, and the lens of his left eye.”

   “Lateral subluxation of the atlantoaxial joints has also been observed in rheumatoid arthritis patients.”