| Contracture (also known as joint or muscle | | | | particularly benefit from the use of orthotics such |
| contracture) is the shortening of a muscle or | | | | as braces or splints. When selecting a contracture |
| tendon which results in moderate to severe | | | | management orthotic, it is important to make |
| restricted range of motion (ROM.) It is often | | | | sure that the device is both comfortable and |
| found in the ankle-foot, hip, knee, elbow, and | | | | user-friendly. Many of today's devices are |
| wrist- hand-finger areas of the body. A | | | | engineered so that they can be easily adjusted |
| contracture can develop for many reasons, but | | | | for a custom fit or disassembled for washing. |
| the primary causes are stroke and prolonged | | | | Soft cushioning and a comfortable fit help to |
| immobilization such as bed rest. Stroke victims are | | | | prevent skin damage, a common complication of |
| particularly vulnerable as attacks are often | | | | contracture treatment. The orthotic device should |
| followed by significant muscle weakness and | | | | also offer sturdy hinges that support the full |
| spastic muscle contractions. Contracture can also | | | | range of motion. In some instances heat therapy |
| be caused by neurologic complications, birth | | | | can be used in conjunction with orthotics as it |
| defect, deformity, and burn scarring. | | | | allows for greater elasticity in the soft tissues. |
| The principal symptom of contracture is loss of | | | | Occasionally surgical intervention is required, but |
| normal movement which can impede daily | | | | for the majority of patients, orthotic devices are |
| activities. It can also be quite painful and cause the | | | | a less invasive option. Those with a predisposition |
| skin to breakdown. For these reasons, it is critical | | | | towards contractures, such as individuals with |
| to prevent contracture when possible and | | | | palsy, may also benefit from preventative |
| proactively treat contracture when diagnosed. | | | | measures such as strategic stretching, muscle |
| Thankfully, proper contracture management can | | | | engagement, and the use of orthotic devices. |
| significantly improve the afflicted individual's quality | | | | To find out more about contracture treatment |
| of life. | | | | options, speak to your physician or orthopedic |
| Contracture treatments vary and depend on the | | | | specialist/surgeon. |
| individual's unique situation. Joint immobilization and | | | | Note: This information is not intended to |
| stretching can help in some situations. In others, | | | | supplement or replace advice from a medical |
| more sophisticated custom orthotics and physical | | | | professional, or to diagnose or treat any condition. |
| therapy may be required. Stroke victims can | | | | |