Contracture
Definition[edit | edit source]
A contracture is an abnormal and usually permanent contraction of a muscle
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Mechanism[edit | edit source]
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[edit | edit source]
- 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[edit | edit source]
- 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.
Signs and symptoms[edit | edit source]
Diagnosis[edit | edit source]
Diagnosis is made with a combination of clinical history, physical examination, and imaging studies such as X-rays and MRI's.
Treatment[edit | edit source]
Treatment may include physical therapy, medicines, and orthopedic braces and or splints.
Surgery[edit | edit source]
Surgery may be helpful for some types of contractures.
Prognosis[edit | edit source]
Prognosis depends on the cause and severity of contracture
Images[edit | edit source]
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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD
