Physical restraint refers to means of purposely limiting or obstructing the freedom of a person's bodily movement.
Handcuffs and chains from wrought iron as formerly used on prisoners; Wales, 19th century (museum exhibit)
Modern chain handcuffs made of hardened steel; Hiatt 2010
Modern steel legcuffs
Iron wrist shackles with chains and padlock; Germany c. 17th century
Handcuffs are restraint devices designed to secure an individual's wrists in proximity to each other. They comprise two parts, linked together by a chain, a hinge, or rigid bar. Each cuff has a rotating arm which engages with a ratchet that prevents it from being opened once closed around a person's wrist. Without the key, the handcuffs cannot be removed without specialist knowledge, and the handcuffed person cannot move their wrists more than a few centimetres or inches apart, making many tasks difficult or impossible.
Hiatt type 2010 handcuffs. c. 1990s.
A person handcuffed behind their back.
Hinged handcuffs used by Dutch police
Handcuffs which were worn by the suspects while being tried for assassinating President Lincoln.