A contracture is a tightening of muscle, tendons, ligaments, or skin that prevents normal movement.
Alternative Names:
Deformity - contracture
Considerations:
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.
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). See also:
Home care continues the care that the health care provider prescribes. For example, physical therapy exercises must be continued at home.
Review Date: 9/21/2006
Reviewed By: Jeffrey Kauffman, MD, Sacramento Knee and Sports Medicine, Sacramento, CA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
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General Orthopaedics
