Joint contracture

Persistent limitation of joint range of motion due to chronic shortening and fibrosis of periarticular soft tissues (muscles, tendons, ligaments, joint capsule, or skin), often resulting in fixed deformity and impaired function.

Causes

• Immobilization-related causes

  • Prolonged bed rest

  • Casts or splints

  • Joint immobilization after injury or surgery

  • Reduced physical activity

  • Chronic pain conditions leading to protective immobility

• Neurological causes

  • Stroke

  • Cerebral palsy

  • Spinal cord injury

  • Multiple sclerosis

  • Traumatic brain injury

  • Peripheral nerve injury

• Musculoskeletal and inflammatory causes

  • Arthritis

  • Post-traumatic inflammation

  • Joint injury

  • Tendon or ligament injury

  • Chronic joint inflammation

• Skin and soft tissue causes

  • Scarring from burns

  • Contractile scar formation

  • Postoperative scarring

  • Skin graft complications

  • Fibrotic connective tissue disorders

• Muscle and metabolic causes

  • Muscular dystrophy

  • Diabetes mellitus

  • Diabetic connective tissue changes

  • Neuromuscular disorders causing muscle imbalance

• Other causes

  • Congenital joint contractures

  • Aging-related loss of tissue elasticity