What does a subluxation of the shoulder indicate about the joint?

A subluxation of the shoulder indicates that the joint has partially dislocated. This means that the head of the humerus has moved out of its normal position within the glenoid socket but has not completely dislocated. In a partial dislocation, the joint maintains some contact between the surfaces, which is why it is distinguished from a complete dislocation.

In a complete dislocation, the joint surfaces are entirely separated, leading to a different set of clinical implications and treatment protocols. A subluxation often presents with pain and a feeling of instability but may allow for some range of motion, depending on how far the joint is out of place. Understanding this condition is crucial for proper diagnosis and management in musculoskeletal practice.