Which condition is an example of a pathologic contracture?

A pathologic contracture is characterized by the abnormal shortening of muscle fibers or other tissues that leads to a decreased range of motion and can occur in various conditions. Muscle dystrophy serves as a prime example of a pathologic contracture because it involves progressive degeneration and weakness of muscle fibers. Over time, the affected muscles can undergo fibrotic changes and shortening as they are unable to regenerate properly, leading to contractures.

In this condition, the muscles lose their ability to stretch and respond normally to commands, which can cause stiffness and limited mobility. The contractures are not simply a result of the normal physiological process of muscle tone but stem from the disease process itself. Therefore, the presence of muscle dystrophy illustrates how the underlying pathology creates lasting changes in muscle function and structure, resulting in contractures.

Cerebral palsy, while it can involve muscle stiffness and spasticity, does not universally lead to pathologic contractures without the presence of other factors. Malignant hyperthermia pertains to a severe reaction to certain anesthetic agents and does not involve muscle shortening as part of its pathology. Muscle soreness is typically a result of normal exercise or overuse and does not indicate abnormal tissue shortening or disease. Thus, muscle dystrophy is the condition