What is a contracture?

• A. Swelling due to fluid retention.
• B. Painful muscle spasm.
• C. Loss of sensation in a limb.
• D. Permanent stiffening of a joint or muscle caused by atrophy; fingers are flexed toward a resident's palm.

Answer: (D)

A contracture is a permanent stiffening of a joint or muscle due to shortening from atrophy or disuse. Over time, this tightening can fix the joint in a bent position, so in the hand you might see the fingers flexed toward the palm and not fully able to straighten. This differs from swelling (edema), which is fluid buildup and usually reversible; from a painful muscle spasm, which is a temporary, sudden tightening; and from loss of sensation, which is a nerve issue rather than a movement limitation. Preventing contractures involves regular range-of-motion exercises, proper repositioning, and avoiding prolonged fixed positions, with prompt reporting of any changes to the nurse.