An abnormal, often permanent shortening, as of muscle or scar tissue, that results in distortion or deformity, especially of a joint of the body. Also: Contractures

	Dermatomyositis The Condition "...As the disease progresses, the muscles begin to waste away (atrophy) and permanently shorten (contracture)..." Dupuytren's Contracture Related Topic "A disease of the palmar fascia (the thin but tough layer of fibrous tissue between the skin of the palm and the underlying flexor tendons of the fingers) resulting in progressive thickening and contracture of fibrous bands on the palm of the hand and fingers..." Hot Applications (Thermotherapy) As A Treatment "...Asthma Subacute and chronic pain Reduction of joint contractures..." Muscular Dystrophy The Condition "...People with muscular dystrophy might have some of the following symptoms, which arise from the atrophy that takes place ... Joint contracture - shortening of muscles around a joint - are common..." Silicone Breast Implant Problems The Condition "What is known about silicone breast implants is that fibrous capsule contracture occurs in about 70% of cases two to four years after implantation..." Stiff Man Syndrome The Condition "...Joint deformity, joint dislocation, joint contracture, skeletal fracture, and muscle rupture have been reported..." Torticollis (Loxia, "Wryneck") The Condition "...Regular muscle stretching prevents contracture, or permanent muscle shortening..."

Last updated: Oct 22, 2008