Contracture is the result of a decrease in elasticity or restriction of connective tissue in the human body.It can affect muscles, tendons, ligaments, joints and skin.
Muscle contracture is the permanent shortening of a muscle or group of muscles, which in turn leads to a restriction of the normal range of motion.
Causes of muscle contracture can be inflammatory diseases, traumatic injuries, degenerative processes, congenital diseases of the musculoskeletal system, etc.One of the most common causes is too sedentary lifestyle or local injury from an accident.People who suffer from a chronic disease that limits motor activity are at increased risk of developing contractures.For example, people suffering from rheumatoid arthritis often have contractures because movement in the affected areas is very painful, the range of motion is limited, which is also a prerequisite for shortening of the connective tissue.Contractures can also occur after prolonged hospitalization or immobilization of a limb.
Symptoms of this injury are decreased range of motion, pain and stiffness in the affected muscle or muscle group.
A skin contracture can form when there is a larger scar from an injury, burn or previous surgical intervention.In this condition, again, there is a restriction of the range of motion in the affected body part.
Physiotherapy is one of the most common treatments for contractures.Apparatus is used to remove inflammation, manual therapy to increase range of motion, and physical exercises are used to strengthen the musculature and prevent future complications.
