Introduction
A painful joint disorder that impairs functional mobility, particularly in athletes and active people, is called fixed flexion deformity (FFD). Using cutting-edge tools and customized rehabilitation plans, we at Elite Physiotherapy and Sports Injury Centre are experts in the thorough and sophisticated physiotherapy care of FFD. Our method restores range of motion and improves quality of life by combining advanced modalities with comprehensive functional evaluations.
What Is Fixed Flexion Deformity?
Fixed Flexion occurs when soft tissue or bone limitations prevent a joint, especially the knee or elbow, from being fully extended. This condition is referred to as Fixed Flexion Deformity. Even with outside help, the joint in this situation cannot fully extend and stays in a partially flexed position.
Causes of Fixed Flexion Deformity
Prolonged joint immobilization (post-injury or surgery)
Muscle imbalances or tightness, especially hamstring or biceps contractures
Joint effusion or intra-articular swelling
Fibrosis or adhesions in periarticular structures
Post-traumatic arthritis or osteoarthritis
Neurological disorders causing spasticity or contractures
Congenital conditions or developmental joint abnormalities
Usually, FFD develops gradually. For example, if the joint is kept in a flexed position for a long period of time following an injury, the soft tissues will adapt by shortening. Extension is limited throughout time by fibrotic alterations in the muscles, ligaments, and joint capsules. Incomplete healing or inadequate rehabilitation can also make the illness worse.
Clinical Features and Symptoms
Unable to completely straighten the affected joint
Stiffness in the joints, particularly after rest or in the morning
Pain or discomfort when exercising or lifting weights
Functional restriction,s whether it comes to lifting, running, or walking
Changes in the lower limb FFD gait pattern
Muscle atrophy brought on by inactivity
Joint malformation that is visible in more advanced cases
Diagnosis at Elite Physiotherapy and Sports Injury Centre
Effective therapy at our clinic is based on a precise diagnosis. For every patient, we employ a mix of functional and physical evaluations.
Physical Assessment Includes:
Active and passive range of motion are measured goniometrically.
Checking for fibrosis, tightness, and tenderness
Muscle testing by hand to detect imbalances or weakness
Assessment of joint play to determine capsular limitations
Special Physiotherapy Tests:
Thomas Test – to assess hip flexor contracture in lower limb FFD
Ely’s Test – for rectus femoris tightness
Popliteal angle test – for hamstring flexibility
Prone knee flexion test – for detecting quadriceps tightness
Extension lag test – to identify quadriceps weakness or adhesion
Advanced Physiotherapy Management at Elite Physiotherapy
At Elite Physiotherapy, our Team is committed to treating the underlying cause rather than just the symptoms. To deliver safe and efficient care, we integrate functional rehabilitation, manual therapy, and state-of-the-art modalities.
1. Manual Therapy Techniques
Myofascial release to target soft tissue restrictions
Joint mobilization to improve capsular elasticity
Soft tissue manipulation for fibrosis breakdown
Muscle energy techniques to lengthen shortened muscles
2. Stretching and Mobility Exercises
Prolonged low-load static stretching using positioning aids
Active-assisted and passive stretching exercises
Functional movement training to integrate improved ROM
Proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation (PNF) for neuromuscular control
3. Strengthening Exercises
Isometric and eccentric strengthening for antagonist muscles
Closed-chain exercises to improve joint stability
Functional retraining to restore gait or upper limb function
4. High-End Modalities for FFD Management
CRET Therapy (Capacitive and Resistive Electric Transfer)
Promotes deep tissue heating
Reduces fibrosis and improves elasticity
Enhances cellular metabolism and tissue regeneration
Super Inductive System (SIS)
Stimulates neuromuscular activation
Breaks pain-spasm-pain cycle
Improves joint mobility and motor control
High-Intensity Class 4 Laser Therapy
Penetrates deep tissues to reduce inflammation and fibrosis
Stimulates collagen remodeling
Accelerates healing of soft tissue structures
Shockwave Therapy (if fibrosis is present)
Used carefully in chronic cases with soft tissue calcifications
Stimulates neovascularization and tissue regeneration
Breaks down adhesions and scar tissue
Hydrotherapy
Useful for early mobility training in chronic FFD
Reduces joint loading while promoting ROM
Aids in functional muscle activation
Personalized Care at Elite Physiotherapy
We are aware that each patient is unique. Our FFD treatment regimens are therefore completely tailored and modified following goals, progress, and response. We guarantee the following at Elite Physiotherapy and Sports Injury Centre:
Individualized care from skilled physiotherapists
Frequent monitoring of functional progress
Resolving the contributing biomechanical issues
Support for athletic and ergonomic training
Exercise regimen at home with professional supervision
When to Seek Help
Consult us right away if you observe a gradual loss of extension or joint stiffness that doesn’t go away with rest. Early intervention lowers the chance of lifelong malformation and greatly improves results.
Final Thoughts
Fixed Flexion Deformity restricts performance, confidence, and independence in addition to affecting joints. Elite Physiotherapy & Sports Injury Centre enables patients to regain full mobility and resume optimal performance through a targeted, evidence-based, and comprehensive physiotherapy approach. We are the premier option for managing FFD in Delhi and NCR due to our cutting-edge physiotherapy solutions and extensive clinical expertise.
Book your consultation today and take the first step toward a pain-free, mobile future.