Contractures with special reference in elderly: definition and risk factors – a systematic review with practical implications

Abstract

In most of the studies it seems that the presence of a contracture is equivalent with the presence of restriction in the range of motion (ROM) of a joint. Very little is known about risk factors for contractures. But it seems that immobility may play a pivotal role in the development of this condition. IMPLICATION FOR REHABILITATION: The prevalence of contractures in nursing home residents is estimated at 55% with significant functional and medical consequences. In most studies, which were published in the last 10 years, the presence of a contracture is equivalent with the presence of restriction in the range of motion of a joint. Immobility seems to play a role in the development of contractures. Potential avenues to prevention of contractures and subsequent functional limitations are exercise programmes for and maintenance of mobility of the elderly.

KAPS (kinematic assessment of passive stretch): a tool to assess elbow flexor and extensor spasticity after stroke using a robotic exoskeleton

“…An ‘earlier’ Final angle (lower movement extent) and larger Between-arm final angle difference is indicative of tissue shortening, or contracture [39]. After the stretch, the robot generates a torque proportional to the difference between the Final angle and the specified end angle (0.26 Nm/deg), attempting to drive the arm to maximal range.…”

Development of arthrogenic joint contracture as a result of pathological changes in remobilized rat knees

“…Joint contracture is characterized by reduced joint range of motion (ROM), which limits daily living activities and is thus an important issue in medical care. Although joint contracture may arise from various pathological conditions, such as arthritis and central nervous system diseases, the most common cause is joint immobilization .…”

Patients’ view on health-related aspects of functioning and disability of joint contractures: a qualitative interview study based on the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF)

“…A variety of functional measures is currently used for the assessment and evaluation of geriatric patients [6]. Consensus on the most relevant concepts would make it easier to decide on appropriate measures and to collect reliable data.…”