Which feature indicates a chronic limitation of motion due to permanent shortening of tissue?

Which feature indicates a chronic limitation of motion due to permanent shortening of tissue?

• A. Tenderness
• B. Edema
• C. Contractures
• D. Hyperemia

Answer: (C)

The idea being tested is identifying a sign of permanent tissue shortening that limits motion over the long term. Contractures are exactly that: permanent shortening and thickening of connective tissue, muscle, or skin that makes a joint stiff and fixes it in a limited position. This lasting change explains why motion remains restricted even after acute symptoms like swelling fade. Other signs point to temporary issues—tenderness signals pain from tissue injury, edema is swelling from fluid buildup, and hyperemia is increased blood flow from inflammation—none of which imply a lasting, fixed shortening of tissue. So when you see a chronic, fixed limitation of motion due to tissue shortening, contracture is the best fit.

The idea being tested is identifying a sign of permanent tissue shortening that limits motion over the long term. Contractures are exactly that: permanent shortening and thickening of connective tissue, muscle, or skin that makes a joint stiff and fixes it in a limited position. This lasting change explains why motion remains restricted even after acute symptoms like swelling fade. Other signs point to temporary issues—tenderness signals pain from tissue injury, edema is swelling from fluid buildup, and hyperemia is increased blood flow from inflammation—none of which imply a lasting, fixed shortening of tissue. So when you see a chronic, fixed limitation of motion due to tissue shortening, contracture is the best fit.