Pressure Relief for Contractures: What exactly is a contractures?
A contracture is a restriction in the range of motion of a joint. In some cases, it can cause discomfort when moving, or prevent you from fully extending the joint. People who have a contracture often experience changes in the skin and soft tissues surrounding the joint, which may be caused by injury, infection, or disease.
When limbs are locked together for lengthy periods of time, it can create shear, friction, moisture, and heat—all contributory factors for inflammation, followed quickly by pressure ulcers and skin breakdown.
For pressure relief for contractures, low-profile flat silicone gel pads can be placed between the locked limbs to provide an essential layer of cushioning and comfort. These pads mimic the consistency of human fat tissue and can help prevent pressure injuries or support healing in vulnerable areas.
What causes a contracture?
It is caused by disorders that limit or inhibit mobility, impair muscle tone, or create a weakness that results in contractures. A contracture can be caused by any of the factors listed below:
- Muscle, bone, and joint injuries
- Scarring after traumatic injury or burns
- Damage to the nerves
- Inactivity for an extended length of time
- Arthritis or an infection of the joints
- Motor neurone disease (MND)
- cerebral palsy (CP)
- Muscular Dystrophy
- Stroke
- Dementia
- Osteoarthritis
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Muscular Sclerosis
- Parkinson’s Disease
What is the procedure for diagnosing a contracture?
As well as understanding wider contributory conditions causing the contracture, a thorough examination of the afflicted limb includes a check of the joint’s range of motion and movement. It may be necessary to take X-rays in order to determine the source of the contracture.
What is the treatment for a contracture?
The treatment for the contracture is determined on the aetiology of the contracture and may require one or more of the following:
- It is possible that physical treatment will be recommended. A physical therapist will prescribe exercises that will help improve mobility and strength while also decreasing
- Heat treatment using, for example, ultrasonography can be used to reduce pain and stiffness in the body. Heat treatment and stretching exercises can be utilised in conjunction with one another.
- A support device, such as a splint, cast, or brace, can also be used to maintain the stretched posture of a contracture. Once every 2 to 3 days, the device should be withdrawn in order for the contracture to be stretched once again. Once again, the assistance device will be used.
- Flat Silicone Gel pressure relief pads can also be used to place between contractures where limbs are locked together for an extended period of time. They not only help prevent pressure sores, but they can also eliminate moisture, help keep the user cool, and they’re low profile, meaning posture shouldn’t be affected by this treatment.
Pressure ulcer prevention and treatment, skin integrity preservation, and improved posture are all benefits of the Gel Ovations product line, which are utilised across the healthcare sector.
- Pain and spasm-relieving medications may be administered.
- Surgery may be used to cut and lengthen tendons or ligaments that are too short or too tight to move freely. It is also possible to have joint replacement surgery.
What can prevent a contracture from arising?
Contractures can often be prevented by maintaining correct positioning and encouraging safe movement as early as possible. A splint or other supportive device may be used to keep the limb in the right posture, improve alignment, and support pressure relief for contractures where body parts rest closely together.
Regular mobility exercises, stretching, and range of motion routines are also essential. These activities help preserve joint flexibility, reduce stiffness, improve balance and strength, and lower the risk of the joint becoming fixed over time. Consistency is key, especially for people with reduced mobility or long periods of bed rest.
In the aftermath of an injury or surgery, pain may prevent patients from moving an affected joint regularly, increasing the chance of stiffness and a contracture developing. Effective pain management can make it easier to carry out recommended exercises and maintain pressure relief for contractures as part of a wider prevention plan.
To view Gel Ovations Flat Gel Pads for treating contractures please click here
Q&A’S
What causes a contracture?
Contractures are commonly caused by disorders or conditions that limit mobility, affect muscle tone, or create weakness. Causes may include injuries to muscles, bones, or joints, scarring after burns, nerve damage, extended inactivity, arthritis, joint infections, stroke, dementia, Parkinson’s disease, cerebral palsy, muscular dystrophy, motor neurone disease (MND), multiple sclerosis, and rheumatoid arthritis.
What is the procedure for diagnosing a contracture?
Diagnosing a contracture usually involves a full assessment of the affected limb, including checking the joint’s movement and range of motion. Healthcare professionals may also look at contributory underlying conditions, and in some cases X-rays may be required to help identify the cause.
Can silicone gel pads be used as part of contracture care?
Yes. Flat silicone gel pressure relief pads can be placed between contractures where limbs are locked together for extended periods. They help prevent pressure sores, reduce moisture build-up, support cooling, and their low-profile design helps maintain posture during treatment.
