Orthopaedics · Musculoskeletal System · Easy

Hyperflexion

Meaning: Bending of a joint beyond its normal range, which can injure ligaments, discs or bones.

In practice: A forceful hyperflexion injury of the neck can cause a teardrop fracture.

Word parts

  • hyper- means above or more than normal

Many medical words are built from Greek and Latin parts like these, so learning a few helps you work out new terms.

Quick check

Two questions on related orthopaedics words.

Which word means: Divided into two parts, as when an ossification centre fails to fuse.

Which word means: Inflammation of a bursa — a fluid-filled sac cushioning a joint.

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Related words

More orthopaedics terms · All medical words