What is a contracture?
Increased muscle tone is commonly associated with Cerebral Palsy. This may impact an individual’s ability to stretch a muscle passively to its proper length. If sustained over time, this may have the potential to develop into what is known as a contracture. A contracture is a permanent shortening of a muscle-tendon unit resulting in a loss of functional range of motion (the ability of a joint to move). This may eventually restrict joint (e.g. the elbow) mobility and incur abnormal joint positioning.
How does it happen?
When a muscle is placed in a static position for a prolonged period, changes in the muscle fibres occur. There is a decrease in the number and length of muscle fibres in order to create a new, optimal, force producing length. In neuromuscular conditions (e.g. cerebral palsy), spasticity (the involuntary tightening of muscles) can result in a muscle imbalance across a joint, leading to abnormal positioning.
Why come to the Centre of Movement to see an Exercise Physiologist?
Here at the Centre of Movement, we view movement as fundamental aspect in a child’s development. Our team of Exercise Physiologists are qualified and trained to identify muscle imbalances that may have the potential to manifest into a contracture. Early intervention is key to reducing the risk.
A muscle imbalance across a joint (e.g. knees and/or hips) may be alleviated by implementing exercises that strengthen the opposing, lengthened/weakened muscles. In addition, targeted exercise and movement encourage the joints and muscles to undergo an increase in range of motion that may not normally occur during a child’s day-to-day activities.
See below for some easy tips and tricks to implement at home!
"Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much"
– Helen Keller
