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Contractures


About this topic


A contracture is the tightening of muscles, tendons, ligaments, or skin. This stops normal movement. Contractures last for a long time. They are not the same as spasticity. Spasticity happens when a muscle has a spasm or tightens and you cannot control it. This may lead to a contracture if it is not relieved over time. ‚  
Braces, therapy, and stretching may help with some contractures. Others may need surgery to fix them. ‚  

What are the causes?


Contractures may be caused by not being able to move well. Injuries and burns may cause contractures. Scarring or chronic swelling may limit movement and lead to them as well. Problems like muscular dystrophy, cerebral palsy, or stroke may cause contractures. ‚  

What can make this more likely to happen?


You are more likely to have contractures if you have a condition that causes limited movement. People with problems, such as brain or spinal cord injury, stroke, cerebral palsy, muscular dystrophy, or rheumatoid arthritis are more likely to get contractures. ‚  

What are the main signs?


When you have a contracture, you are not able to fully bend or straighten a part of your body. A part of your body may look deformed and you may have pain when trying to move the area. ‚  

How does the doctor diagnose this health problem?


The doctor will take your history and do an exam. The doctor may order: ‚  
  • X-rays
  • MRI scan

How does the doctor treat this health problem?


  • Heat
  • Gentle weight-bearing exercise such as walking
  • Braces, splints, or casts
  • Stretching exercises
  • Physical therapy (PT)
  • Nerve block
  • Electric stimulation
  • Surgery

What drugs may be needed?


The doctor may order drugs to: ‚  
  • Help with pain and swelling
  • Relax tight muscles

What problems could happen?


  • Long-lasting deformity
  • Disability
  • Trouble doing tasks or walking

What can be done to prevent this health problem?


  • After a surgery or injury, start movement as soon as your doctor lets you move.
  • Do range of motion and stretching regularly if you are at risk for contractures.

Where can I learn more?


Amputee Coalition ‚  
http://www.amputee-coalition.org/inmotion/may_jun_11/preventing_contractures.pdf ‚  
National Organization for Rare Disorders ‚  
http://www.rarediseases.org/rare-disease-information/rare-diseases/byID/667/viewAbstract ‚  

Consumer Information Use and Disclaimer


This information is not specific medical advice and does not replace information you receive from your health care provider. This is only a brief summary of general information. It does NOT include all information about conditions, illnesses, injuries, tests, procedures, treatments, therapies, discharge instructions or life-style choices that may apply to you. You must talk with your health care provider for complete information about your health and treatment options. This information should not be used to decide whether or not to accept your health care providers advice, instructions or recommendations. Only your health care provider has the knowledge and training to provide advice that is right for you. ‚  

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