Baylor Health Care System
 
A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P R S T U V W Y

Contracture deformity

Alternative Names

Deformity - contracture

Home Care

Home care continues the care that the health care provider prescribes. For example, physical therapy exercises must be continued at home.

When to Contact a Medical Professional

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

Your health care provider will perform a physical examination and ask questions about your tightness or limited movement, such as:

  • When did it start?
  • How would you describe it? Where is it located? How bad is it?
  • How much movement is there?
  • What other symptoms are also present?

Depending on the cause and type of contracture, diagnostic testing (such as an x-ray) may be necessary.

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

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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