Contracture deformity
Definition
A contracture is a tightening of muscle, tendons, ligaments, or skin that prevents normal movement.
Alternative Names
Deformity - contractureConsiderations
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:
- Dupuytren's contracture
- Volkmann's contracture
- Becker's muscular dystrophy
- Cerebral palsy
- Duchenne's muscular dystrophy
Causes
- Injury (including burns)
- Reduced use (for example, from immobilization)
- Damage or degeneration of the nerves
- Inherited disorders (such as muscular dystrophy)
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