distraction

(dis-trak′shŏn)

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[L. distractio, a pulling apart, separation]

1. A state of mental confusion or derangement.
2. A disruption or interruption that prevents a person from completing a task or from focusing attention on a task.
3. An attempt to redirect a patient's attention from a painful or noxious stimulus to another, more pleasant one.
4. Separation of joint surfaces by extension without injury or dislocation of the parts.
5. A joint mobilization technique causing separation of opposing joint surfaces, used to inhibit pain, move synovial fluid, or stretch a tight joint capsule.

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