Which term is defined as abnormal separation in a joint where two or more bones meet?

The term defined as abnormal separation in a joint where two or more bones meet is dislocation. A dislocation occurs when the bones in a joint are displaced from their normal alignment, which can lead to pain, immobility, and sometimes damage to surrounding tissues, such as ligaments and nerves. This condition generally requires medical intervention to reposition the bones and restore normal function.

In contrast, a subluxation refers to a partial dislocation or incomplete separation of the joint, which is less severe than a full dislocation. A fracture involves a break in the bone itself rather than a displacement at a joint. A sprain is an injury to a ligament caused by overstretching or tearing, but it does not involve the separation of bones at a joint like a dislocation does. Understanding these specific definitions can help differentiate between these common musculoskeletal injuries.