What can lead to the risk of contractures in a patient?

The risk of contractures in a patient is closely associated with improper alignment. When a patient's body is not properly aligned, certain joints may remain in a fixed position for extended periods, leading to a shortened or tightened state of the muscles and tendons around those joints. This can result in decreased range of motion and potentially permanent shortening of the muscle or tendon, known as a contracture.

Proper alignment is crucial to maintaining flexibility and preventing the muscles and tendons from adapting to a shortened state. By ensuring that joints are positioned appropriately, caregivers can help preserve the natural movement of limbs and reduce the likelihood of contractures developing over time.

In contrast, frequent positioning helps to ensure the patient is moved to different postures, which can aid in preventing complications such as contractures. Immediate mobility is also beneficial, as it promotes movement and circulation, which can further mitigate the risks associated with immobility. Excessive stretching, while it may seem beneficial, can lead to other issues if not applied appropriately, but it is not a primary factor in the risk of contractures in the way that improper alignment is.