Stiff Joints and Inability to Move It Freely
The tightness of the skin may make it difficult to move the joint when the stiff, thickened, or tight skin develops over a joint (i.e., finger wrist, finger, or jaw). Physical therapy will help you regain the full range of movement. You can lose the ability to completely bend or extend a finger, wrist, elbow, or other portion of your body without physical therapy. [6]
Often, the hardening and tightening spread to the muscle. This can cause weakness and shortening of the muscles. You may not be able to stretch your muscle. It’s important to inform your doctor if you have muscle weakness so that the cause can be identified and handled.