A contracture is a fixed tightening of muscles, tendons, ligaments, or skin that prevents normal movement of the associated body part. It is usually permanent, but less commonly can be temporary or resolve over time but reoccur later in life. Contractures develop when normally elastic tissues such as muscles or tendons are replaced by inelastic tissues (fibrosis), resulting in the shortening and hardening of these tissues, ultimately causing rigidity, joint deformities, and a total loss of movement around the joint. Contractures can occur in different parts of the body, such as muscles, joints, and skin. The most common causes of contracture are inactivity and scarring from an injury or burn. Other causes include brain and nervous system disorders, inherited disorders, nerve damage, reduced use, severe muscle and bone injuries, and rheumatoid arthritis. The main symptom of contracture deformity is reduced ability to move an area of the body, and there may also be pain depending on the location and cause of the problem. Treatments for contractures may include physical therapy, medicines, exercises, stretches, braces, and splints.