What it means
A change in the normal shape of a part of the body. It may be present at birth, such as clubfoot, or come later from injury, such as a broken bone that bends a limb, or from disease, such as joint changes in rheumatoid arthritisROO-muh-toyd ar-THRY-tisA long-term autoimmune disease in which the immune system attacks the lining of the joints.rheumat/o flowing, joint pain-oid likearthr/o joint-itis inflammationFull entry or a curved spine. A new deformity after a fall can mean a fracture or dislocationdis-loh-KAY-shunAn injury in which the ends of bones that meet at a joint are forced out of their normal position.Full entry .
For the nurse
After an injury, compare the injured limb with the other side for shape, length and rotation, and check the pulse, color, warmth and feeling below it. Do not try to straighten it; splint it as it lies.
At a glance
| Spanish | deformidad |
|---|---|
| Also written | deformities, deformed |
Related terms
rheumatoid arthritis
A long-term autoimmune disease in which the immune system attacks the lining of the joints.
dislocation
An injury in which the ends of bones that meet at a joint are forced out of their normal position.
orthopedic
Having to do with the bones, joints, muscles, ligaments and tendons, and the branch of medicine that treats them.