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Contracture deformity

Deformity - contracture

 

A contracture develops when the normally stretchy (elastic) tissues are replaced by nonstretchy (inelastic) fiber-like tissue. This tissue makes it hard to stretch the area and prevents normal movement.

Contractures mostly occur in the skin, the tissues underneath, and the muscles, tendons, ligaments surrounding a joint. They affect range of motion and function in a certain body part. Often, there is also pain.

Causes

 

Contracture can be caused by any of the following:

  • Brain and nervous system disorders, such as cerebral palsy or stroke
  • Inherited disorders (such as muscular dystrophy )
  • Nerve damage
  • Reduced use (for example, from lack of mobility)
  • Scarring after traumatic injury or burns

 

Home Care

 

Follow your health care provider's instructions for treating contracture at home. Treatments may include: 

  • Doing exercises and stretches
  • Using braces and splints

 

When to Contact a Medical Professional

 

Call your provider if:

  • A contracture seems to be developing.
  • You notice a decreased ability to move a joint.

 

What to Expect at Your Office Visit

 

Depending on the cause and type of contracture, you may need tests such as an x-ray .

Physical therapy, medicines, orthopedic braces, or surgery may be helpful for some types of contractures.

 

 

References

Campbell M, Dudek N, Trudel G. Joint contractures. In: Frontera WR, Silver JK, Rizzo TD Jr, eds. Essentials of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation . 3rd ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier Saunders; 2014:chap 126.

Skalsky AJ, McDonald CM. Prevention and management of limb contractures in neuromuscular diseases. Phys Med Rehabil Clin N Am . 2012;23(3):675-687. PMID: 22938881 www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22938881 .

 
  • Contracture deformity - illustration

    A contracture is a fixed tightening of muscle, tendons, ligaments, or skin. It prevents normal movement of the associated body part. An injury such as a severe burn can cause contracture of the skin. The skin becomes scarred and nonelastic which limits the range of movement of the affected area.

    Contracture deformity

    illustration

    • Contracture deformity - illustration

      A contracture is a fixed tightening of muscle, tendons, ligaments, or skin. It prevents normal movement of the associated body part. An injury such as a severe burn can cause contracture of the skin. The skin becomes scarred and nonelastic which limits the range of movement of the affected area.

      Contracture deformity

      illustration

    Self Care

     

      Tests for Contracture deformity

       

         

        Review Date: 9/22/2016

        Reviewed By: C. Benjamin Ma, MD, Professor, Chief, Sports Medicine and Shoulder Service, UCSF Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, San Francisco, CA. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Isla Ogilvie, PhD, and the A.D.A.M. Editorial team.

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