What are contractures?

Contractures refer to the condition where muscles, tendons, or ligaments become permanently shortened, which leads to limited movement around the joints. This occurs due to various factors, such as prolonged immobilization, neurological conditions, or muscle atrophy, resulting in the affected joints being unable to achieve their full range of motion. When tissues are in a shortened position for an extended period, the muscle fibers and surrounding connective tissues adapt by contracting and tightening, leading to the characteristic rigidity associated with contractures.

In contrast, the other options describe conditions that are not long-lasting or permanent. Temporary stiffness of muscles and reversible muscular spasms indicate situations that can resolve over time with proper movement or treatment, while flexibility of joints during rehabilitation describes a goal of treatment rather than a pathological condition. Thus, the correct understanding of contractures encompasses their permanence and the resultant impact on mobility.