What it means
When a joint stays in one position for a long time, the tissues around it shorten and stiffen. It is common after long bed rest, stroke, spinal cord injury, burns and in cerebral palsySER-uh-brul PAWL-zeeA group of lifelong disorders of movement and posture caused by damage to the developing brain before, during or soon after birth.cerebr/o brain-al relating topalsy paralysisFull entry . Once formed, it can be hard to reverse and may need splints, stretching or surgery.
For the nurse
Prevent it with range-of-motion exercises, regular position changes, keeping joints in good alignment and using splints as ordered. After an above-the-knee amputation, avoid long sitting and pillows under the residual limb to prevent hip contracture.
At a glance
| Spanish | contractura |
|---|---|
| Also written | contractures |
Related terms
range of motion
How far a joint can move in each of its normal directions, and the exercises that move joints through it.
amputation
The removal of all or part of a limb or other body part, by surgery or by injury.
atrophy
The wasting away or shrinking of a body part, such as a muscle or organ.