The primary sign of Dupuytren’s contracture is when thick, rope-like cords or knots develop in the palm of the hand beneath the skin’s surface. The cords tighten, bending the finger toward the palm – and it’s usually very difficult or impossible to straighten out the finger. Its cause is unknown, but nearly 16 million people have this hand condition in the United States.
One or more fingers might be affected in Dupuytren’s contracture, and it usually affects the pinky and/or the ring finger. It does not usually cause pain, but it can cause disability in the affected hand.
It is important to see a hand doctor as soon as possible if you are experiencing the symptoms of Dupuytren’s contracture, because the condition can become more difficult to treat as it progresses further. Let’s talk about some of the best treatments for this condition and who can help you achieve relief and regain your ability to use your hand normally.
How Can Dupuytren’s Contracture Be Treated?
Your hand doctor has several techniques that can help you regain your ability to straighten out and use your hand. Treatment involves loosening, breaking, or removing the cords which are causing the fingers to contract.
Injection
An effective form of treatment for people with Dupuytren’s contracture is a collagenase enzyme injection. The doctor will inject an enzyme called Xiaflex (Clostridium histolyticum) directly into the cords to cause them to lose their stiffness. Xiaflex is approved by the U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA) for the purpose of treating Dupuytren’s contracture.
As the cords or lumps become soft, the doctor will be able to manipulate them and loosen them. This treatment may need to be repeated in the future, but it is minimally invasive and has virtually no side effects.
Surgery
Severe Dupuytren’s contracture my require surgery. The lumps and cords of tissue are removed from the palm of the hand, and you will be able to straighten out and use your fingers again. Following surgery, physical therapy is required so your hand will heal properly and fully.
Hand Doctors in Maryland
Dupuytren’s contracture can worsen over time, so treatment is required so that it does not become a debilitating condition. Our hand doctors here at Greater Chesapeake Hand to Shoulder can successfully treat hand conditions such as Dupuytren’s contracture. We also treat all ailments affecting the arm, shoulder, elbow, wrist, and hand.
If you are experiencing symptoms associated with Dupuytren’s contracture or you have chronic hand pain or disability, contact our friendly staff today by calling us at (410) 296-6232 or fill out our online appointment request form now. We look forward to serving you!
