Rapid recovery from contracture in rabbit hindlimb. A correlative biomechanical and biochemical study.

Between 3 to 6 weeks after release of immobilized rabbits' knees, joint stiffness as determined by measurement of torque and area of hysteresis was overcome. The total hexosamine and water content of periarticular tissues had increased to within the range of control rabbits' joints and showed strong correlation with the biomechanical measurements.