What is the permanent tightening of fascia, muscles, tendons, ligaments, or skin due to replacement by nonelastic fibrous tissue?

• A. Deep venous thrombosis
• B. Contracture
• C. Ganglion cyst
• D. Tarsal tunnel syndrome

Answer: (B)

Permanent tightening of fascia, muscles, tendons, ligaments, or skin from replacement by nonelastic fibrous tissue is called a contracture. When tissue heals after injury, scar tissue forms. If that scar becomes dense and fibrous and loses its ability to stretch, it shortens the affected structures and restricts movement, leading to a contracture. This often occurs after burns or with prolonged immobilization, causing reduced range of motion.

Deep venous thrombosis involves a blood clot in a deep vein, not fibrous tightening. A ganglion cyst is a fluid-filled lump near a joint or tendon. Tarsal tunnel syndrome is nerve compression at the ankle causing pain or numbness, not tissue tightening.