Knee and Ankle Contracture

Knee and ankle contracture refers to the abnormal tightening or shortening of the soft tissues around the knee and ankle joints, resulting in restricted movement and decreased flexibility. This condition can occur due to various factors, including trauma, surgery, prolonged immobilization, neurological conditions, or inflammatory diseases.

Traumatic injuries such as fractures, dislocations, or ligament tears involving the knee or ankle can lead to damage to the surrounding soft tissues, including muscles, tendons, and ligaments. Scar tissue formation during the healing process may cause the tissues to contract and tighten, resulting in joint contracture and limited range of motion.

Surgical procedures involving the knee or ankle, such as arthroscopic surgery, ligament reconstruction, or joint replacement, may predispose individuals to contracture development if proper postoperative care and rehabilitation measures are not implemented.

Prolonged immobilization of the knee or ankle joint, such as being in a cast, brace, or immobilizer for an extended period, can lead to muscle weakness, stiffness, and contracture formation due to disuse atrophy and reduced joint mobility.

Neurological conditions such as stroke, cerebral palsy, or spinal cord injury can cause muscle weakness, spasticity, or paralysis in the lower extremities, leading to abnormal muscle contractions and joint contractures in the knee and ankle joints.

The symptoms of knee and ankle contracture may vary depending on the severity and location of the contracture but often include:

• Decreased range of motion: Difficulty bending or straightening the knee or ankle joint fully.
• Stiffness and tightness: Feeling of tightness or pulling in the muscles, tendons, or ligaments around the knee or ankle joint.
• Difficulty with weight-bearing activities: Impaired ability to walk, stand, or climb stairs due to limited mobility and stability in the knee or ankle joint.
• Pain or discomfort: Discomfort or pain with movement or when pressure is applied to the affected knee or ankle joint.
• Visible deformity: Visible changes in the alignment or shape of the knee or ankle joint, such as bowing or swelling.