Understanding Contractures: Causes, Symptoms & Management

There are several different types of contractures. Symptoms include a tightening of your skin, muscles, ligaments, tendons or joint areas, which prevent normal activity and movement. Scarring and the lack of muscle or joint use from inactivity or immobility are the most common causes of this condition. Left untreated, some types of contractures may result in deformity.

Instructions

• 1

  Look for symptoms of pain that do not improve or go away with rest or pain medications. This will worsen over time, and if the pressure continues, there will be a decrease in sensation along with weakness and pale skin.

• 2

  Check your family's medical history. Inherited disorders, such as muscular dystrophy, can result in this condition.

• 3

  See your doctor or physical therapist for a professional opinion. There are a number of questions your doctor will ask to assist him in diagnosing the cause and the type of your contractures.

• 4

  Measure the amount of joint motion. Your healthcare professional will manually check and measure your mobility with a series of exercises designed for this purpose.

• 5

  Diagnose these contractures through X-ray. A visible decrease in the amount of joint space may indicate a tight and contracted joint.

• 6

  Treat some types of contractures with physical therapy, braces or surgery.