What condition does 'contracture' describe?

Contracture refers to the abnormal shortening of a muscle or muscle-tendon unit, which results in the loss of joint mobility. This condition is rooted in the response of muscles to immobilization, injury, or certain diseases that lead them to become stiff and unable to stretch fully. When muscles undergo contracture, they lose their elasticity and the affected joint cannot move through its full range of motion, which can significantly impact the functional ability of the individual.

In the context of the other options, options discussing excessive movement or breaking of connective tissue do not align with the definition of contracture. Similarly, the notion of full extension of a muscle over time describes a completely different concept, focusing instead on flexibility rather than the restriction caused by shortening. Therefore, identifying contracture as a lack of joint mobility stemming from abnormal shortening of muscle provides a clear understanding of how this condition manifests and its implications for movement.