Contracture

Definition

A contracture is an abnormal and usually permanent contraction of a muscle

Mechanism

A permanent tightening of the muscles, tendons, skin, and nearby tissues that causes the joints to shorten and become very stiff which prevents normal movement of a joint or other body part.

Causes

• Contractures may be caused by many factors such as injury, scarring, and nerve damage, or by not using the muscles called atrophy.
• It may also occur at some point in time after a stem cell transplant that caused chronic graft-versus-host disease.

Types

• Some contractures are named such as Dupuytren contracture which is a myofibroplastic disease affecting the hands.
• It usually results in painless cords that eventually lead to flexion contracture of the fingers.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis is made with a combination of clinical history, physical examination, and imaging studies such as X-rays and MRI's.

Treatment

Treatment may include physical therapy, medicines, and orthopedic braces and or splints.

Surgery

Surgery may be helpful for some types of contractures.

Prognosis

Prognosis depends on the cause and severity of contracture

Images

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Contracture Resources
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