Soft Tissue Infections/Hardening of tissue

[Muay Thai]

I had to know why as I had cellulitis and an abscess recently that had to get lanced from an ingrown hair and rubbing deodorant near privates after bathing and from my fat girl legs rubbing against each other at work lol...

Q: Why does the tendon stiffen and harden during a soft tissue infection like cellulitis and cause immobility?




Cellulitis is a bacterial infection that affects the skin and the tissues beneath it. It typically occurs when bacteria enter the skin through a cut, scrape, or other breaks in the skin's integrity. While cellulitis primarily affects the skin and subcutaneous tissue, severe cases may extend to deeper structures, including tendons.

When a soft tissue infection like cellulitis involves tendons, several factors can contribute to stiffness, hardness, and reduced mobility:

1. Inflammation and Edema: In response to infection, the body's immune system triggers an inflammatory response. Inflammation leads to the accumulation of immune cells, fluids, and other substances in the affected area. This can cause swelling (edema), which may compress surrounding structures, including tendons. Inflamed tendons can become stiff and less pliable.
2. Pain and Protective Immobility: Pain is a common symptom of cellulitis, and the body's natural response to pain is to limit movement in the affected area to prevent further injury. Pain signals from the infected tissue may lead to protective immobility as a way to minimize discomfort and protect the affected area.
3. Tendon Involvement: If the infection extends to the deeper layers and involves the tendons, the inflammation can affect the tendon sheaths and the tendons themselves. In severe cases, the infection may lead to the formation of abscesses or pus pockets around the tendons, contributing to stiffness and hardness.
4. Fibrosis and Scarring: In the healing process, the body may lay down fibrous tissue as part of the repair mechanism. This fibrosis can lead to scarring and adhesions around the tendons, further limiting their movement and flexibility.

It's crucial to note that severe cases of cellulitis involving tendons can potentially lead to complications, including tenosynovitis (inflammation of the tendon sheath) or deeper tissue infections.