What typically accompanies a contracture?

A contracture is characterized by a permanent shortening of certain tissues, which can lead to a restrictive alteration in the range of motion of the affected muscle or joint. This condition often results in an increased resistance to passive stretching because the shortened tissues do not allow the joint or muscle to extend fully. When a muscle or joint is in a contracted state, it experiences stiffness, which directly correlates with difficulty in achieving a full stretch due to the tightness of the involved structures. Thus, the presence of increased resistance to passive stretch is a hallmark of a contracture, as opposed to enhanced flexibility, complete range of motion, or pain-free movement, which are not typically associated with this condition.