Contracture (Contracture Deformity) Symptoms-Causes-Treatment
What are the treatments?
- What is contracture?
A contracture is a tightening of the muscles, tendons, ligaments, or skin that prevents normal movement. A contracture develops when the normally elastic (stretchy) connective tissues are replaced by inelastic (non stretchy) fiber-like tissue. This makes it hard to stretch the area and prevents normal movement.
What are the symptoms?
You notice a decreased ability to move a joint.
What are the causes?
Contractures occur primarily in the skin, underlying tissues, muscle, tendons, and joint areas. The most common causes are scarring and lack of use (due to immobilization or inactivity). - Inherited disorders (such as muscular dystrophy)
- Injury (including burns)
- Nerve damage
- Reduced use (for example, from immobilization)
What are the treatments?
- Physical therapy
- Orthopedic braces
- Surgery may be helpful for
some types of contractures