Joint effusions and flexion deformities

Abstract

The etiology of flexion deformities was studied experimentally on infant and adult cadavers. The experiment was performed on all major joints, which were first filled with liquid under tension and later connected to a manometer. The influence of joint position on the intra-articular pressure was then carefully noted. It was consistently observed that the position of least pressure was always a position of slight flexion. It was therefore concluded that the occurrence of flexion deformities in the presence of effusion is due to maintenance of the position of comfort, since it is in this position that periarticular structures are under least pressure.