Re: Difference and similarity of rigor mortis and physiological contracture

The difference is basically related to topography and duration.
In rigor mortis, all the muscles are progressively becoming stiff, in an 
irreversible fashion.
On the opposite, contracture is located on one or few muscles (frequently 
in the posterior part of the leg), and last a few minutes, with secondary 
return to a "normal" state.

Hope this helps.

Luc A Ronchi, MD
Ped Anesthesia
Hôpital de Saint-Nazaire
France