Dupuytren Contracture: Causes, Symptoms and Treatment

What is Dupuytren Contracture?

Dupuytren Contracture is a hand condition that can affect the connective tissue beneath the skin of the palm. At Pinnacle Orthocentre Hospital, our dedicated team of specialists, including renowned hand surgeons in thane, is committed to providing comprehensive care for individuals dealing with Dupuytren Contracture.

Causes of Dupuytren Contracture

Dupuytren’s Contracture is influenced by several factors, and understanding its root causes is unclear for effective diagnosis and treatment.

Key contributors include:

1. Genetic Predisposition: Individuals with a family history of Dupuytren Contracture are more prone to developing the condition.
2. Age and Gender: It is more common in individuals over the age of 50 and is generally seen more in men than women.
3. Northern European Descent: People of Northern European descent is at a higher risk.

But we have started treating this condition in many Asians since last 10 years as we see prevalence of this disease is increasing.

Symptoms of Dupuytren Contracture

Recognizing the symptoms of Dupuytren Contracture is essential for early intervention. Look out for:

1. Nodule Formation: A firm lump or nodule under the skin of the palm especially along the base of ring or little finger.
2. Cord Formation: Thickened, cord-like bands of tissue that may develop over time along the base of ring or little finger and some patients, we see involvement of thumb as well.
3. Finger Contracture: Gradual bending of one or more fingers towards the palm, limiting their range of motion & fixed flexion deformity.

Dupuytren Contracture Diagnosis

Our expert hand surgeons in thane utilize advanced diagnostic techniques to accurately identify Dupuytren Contracture, including:

1. Physical Examination: Thorough evaluation of the patient and his involved hand for deformity, range of motion and functional limitations due to the same.
2. Imaging Studies: Ultrasound to visualize the extent of tissue involvement and X-rays to know position of adjacent joints

Dupuytren Contracture Treatment Options

Pinnacle Orthocentre Hospital offers personalized treatment plans tailored to each patient’s unique condition.

Our comprehensive approach includes:

Non-Surgical Options

1. Physical Therapy: Stretching exercises to improve hand flexibility.
2. Splinting: Customized splints to help maintain finger extension.

Surgical Intervention

For more advanced cases, our skilled hand surgeon may recommend surgical procedures, including:

• Fasciotomy: Incisions made in the affected tissue to release tension and improve hand function.
• Fasciectomy: Removal of the diseased tissue to address contractures.

In many patients, surgery for Dupuytren;s contracture is done by percutaneous technique. It helps for the patient to return to function early and heal the surgical site without any infection or scarring.

Post-Surgery Rehabilitation

Our team ensures a seamless transition from surgery to recovery through:

1. Occupational Therapy: Specialized therapy to regain hand strength and dexterity.
2. Follow-Up Care: Regular check-ups to monitor progress and address any concerns like recurrence of the deformity or formation of band or contracture.

Best Hand Exercises for Dupuytren Contracture: A Comprehensive Guide

Living with Dupuytren’s Contracture can be challenging only if the deformity is progressive, but incorporating targeted hand exercises into your routine can help alleviate symptoms and maintain hand function.

At Pinnacle Orthocentre Hospital, our experts recommend the following exercises to improve flexibility and strengthen the affected hand.

1. Finger Stretching Exercises

Procedure:

1. Place Your Hand Flat: Start by placing your affected hand on a flat surface with fingers spread apart.
2. Gentle Stretch: Using your unaffected hand, gently and slowly stretch the affected fingers outward.
3. Hold and Repeat: Hold the stretch for 15-30 seconds, then release. Repeat this exercise 5-10 times, gradually increasing the duration.
4. Tabletop Tap Exercises

Procedure:

1. Rest Your Hand: Place your affected hand on a tabletop or any flat surface.
2. Tap Fingers: One by one, tap each finger on the surface. Focus on moving each finger independently.
3. Repeat: Perform this exercise for 1-2 minutes, gradually increasing the duration as your hand becomes more flexible.
4. Grip Strengthening with a Soft Ball

Procedure:

1. Hold a Soft Ball: Use a soft, squeezable ball and hold it in your hand.
2. Squeeze and Release: Gently squeeze the ball with your affected hand, hold for a few seconds, and then release.
3. Repeat: Aim for 10-15 repetitions, gradually increasing the number as your hand strength improves.
4. Wrist Flexor Stretch

Procedure:

1. Extend Arm: Extend your affected arm in front of you with the palm facing down.
2. Use Unaffected Hand: Use your unaffected hand to gently bend the wrist of the affected hand downward.
3. Hold and Repeat: Hold the stretch for 15-30 seconds, then release. Repeat 5-10 times.
4. Tendon Gliding Exercises

Procedure:

1. Start with a Fist: Begin with your hand in a fist position.
2. Gradual Opening: Open your hand, straightening your fingers one at a time.
3. Return to Fist: Slowly return to the fist position.
4. Repeat: Perform 10-15 repetitions, focusing on controlled and deliberate movements.

Important Tips:

1. Consistency is Key: Perform these exercises regularly to experience improvement over time.
2. Listen to Your Body: If any exercise causes pain, stop immediately and consult with your healthcare provider.
3. Combine with Professional Care: These exercises work well in conjunction with medical treatments and therapies provided by our expert team at Pinnacle Orthocentre Hospital.

Incorporating these hand exercises into your daily routine can contribute to the overall management of Dupuytren’s Contracture.

However, it’s essential to consult with your healthcare provider or a hand specialist at Pinnacle Orthocentre Hospital to create a personalized exercise plan that suits your individual needs and condition.

Dupuytren Contracture: Seeking Specialized Care

If you or a loved one is experiencing symptoms of Dupuytren Contracture, trust the expertise of the Pinnacle Orthocentre Hospital. Our dedicated team, including skilled hand specialist surgeons in thane, is here to provide compassionate care and effective treatment solutions.

Don’t let Dupuytren Contracture limit your hand function — schedule a consultation today.

Conclusion:

Dupuytren Contracture is a complex hand condition that can significantly affect daily life. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment, including Dupuytren’s contracture surgery in Thane at Pinnacle Orthocentre, can make a significant difference in managing the condition.

If you suspect you have Dupuytren Contracture, don’t hesitate to seek medical advice.