Contractures are conditions where muscles, tendons, or ligaments shorten and tighten, leading to restricted movement in a joint. This can occur due to various reasons, including injury, prolonged immobility, or certain medical conditions like cerebral palsy or arthritis. When a contracture develops, it can cause pain and limit the range of motion, making everyday activities challenging. Treatment options may include physical therapy, stretching exercises, or in severe cases, surgery to release the tightness and restore function to the affected area.