What is Dupuytren’s Contracture?
The palmar fascia is fibrous tissue between the palm and fingers. The palmar fascia stabilizes the palmar side of the hand. Without the palmar fascia, it would be difficult to grip objects and make a tight fist.
Common Causes:
- Palmar fascia thickens and tightens
- Diabetes
- Seizure disorders (epilepsy)
- Alcoholism
- Age
The cause of Dupuytren’s contracture is unknown. Risk factors include:
- Gender: Males.
- Ancestry. Northern European descent.
- Medical conditions. Diabetes, seizure disorders.
- Hereditary. Genetically inherited.
Symptoms of Dupuytren’s Contracture may include:
- Hand tightness and stiffness
- Small visible nodule
- Difficulty with straightening the fingers and properly use the hand
- Symptoms usually seen in the index and ring fingers. The cause of Dupuytren’s contracture is unknown
When you arrive for your initial consultation, an Orthopedic Physicians Alaska (OPA) Hand Specialist will evaluate your areas of concern, discuss your symptoms, and develop a customized and comprehensive treatment plan tailored to your unique needs. This evaluation is a necessary part of diagnosing your condition and providing the best possible care.
When diagnosing Dupuytren’s contracture, our experts will provide:
- A medical, injury, and symptom history review
- A physical examination
- Multiple view x-rays ( to rule out a fracture) and Ultrasound imaging
Once an official diagnosis is made, a customized treatment plan is prescribed. Treatment plans decrease symptoms as quickly as possible.
Common Treatments:
Nonsurgical treatment options treat most cases of Dupuytren’s Contracture. A customized treatment plan usually includes a combination of the following:
Injections
Corticosteroid injections decrease inflammation and pain. Injections also slow down or stop nodule progression.
Splinting
Splinting is not known to prevent the progression of a finger contracture. Forceful stretching of the contracted finger may not be helpful and, in fact, could cause an injury to the finger or hand.
Physical Therapy
An OPA approved hand therapist can help you maintain your motion and function
