People dealing with hand problems may have serious problems with day-to-day activities, especially those with conditions like Dupuytren's contracture. In some cases of Dupuytren's contracture, sufferers do not realize the changes in their hands right away because they happen gradually over time. However, some people can have severe problems with this conditions because it disfigures the hands, making it hard to use them. Check out these facts about Dupuytren's contracture and what you can do about it.
What Causes Dupuytren's Contracture?
Doctors and researchers are not sure what causes Dupuytren's contracture. However, it is known that this condition happens more in men than women and it is hereditary. Most people with this condition are from a European descent as well. While some hand problems come from using your hand to do repeated tasks over a long period of time, Dupuytren's contracture is not due to any repetitive hand movements.
What Are The Symptoms Of Dupuytren's Contracture?
Many people that have a severe case of Dupuytren's contracture were not aware of anything being wrong with their hand or hands until they noticed small, hard bumps appearing on their palms. The bumps, also called nodules, form just below the skin and generally do not hurt. From these nodules form cords of hardened tissue that stretch to the fingers, causing them to pull inwards towards the palm.
In some people, the ring and small fingers are most commonly affected, making it impossible to open them. Many doctors use a table top test for helping to diagnose this condition. You may be asked to lie your hand flat upon a table top for allowing your physician to see if you can open your hand and fingers all the way.
How Is Dupuytren's Contracture Treated?
Many people undergo frequent monitoring for Dupuytren's contracture while others must have surgical intervention for straightening the fingers out. The surgery for this condition involves cutting the hardened tissue cords out. In some cases, the cords of hardened tissue can be divided for allowing the fingers to regain proper range of motion. Other treatment options in addition to surgery include:
Needle aponeurotomy: A hypodermic needle is used to divide the hardened tissue. Only a local numbing anesthetic is used and this procedure can be performed in your doctor's office.
Enzyme injection: This procedure involves your hand being numbed with a local anesthetic before an enzyme is injected into the corded tissue. The enzyme breaks down and divides the tissue, making it easier for you to move your fingers and straighten them out.
When your hands are disfigured, you may miss out on many activities in life. If you are tired of dealing with curled fingers on your hand or hands, contact a hand surgery specialist today and learn your options for straightening out your fingers. Visit http://www.towncenterorthopaedics.com to learn more.
Share20 June 2016
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