Living with Dupuytren’s contracture can be hard both physically and emotionally. It affects the tissue under the skin of the palm, making it thicker and causing fingers to curl. Dupuytren’s contracture does not affect everyone in the same way. For some individuals, it progresses slowly and remains mild, causing little trouble in daily life. For others, it gets worse quickly and makes it hard to move and use the hand.
It is important to understand the condition and how it changes over time. It is also crucial to know when Dupuytren’s contracture treatment is needed. This can help you keep your hand working well and maintain your quality of life.
Signs That Show Treatment May Be Needed
Living with the condition can change how your hand works over time. Knowing the signs that show Dupuytren’s contracture treatment may be needed is important. These signs can help you decide when to talk to a doctor about managing the condition.
Trouble Doing Everyday Tasks
Simple activities can become harder as the condition worsens. You may find it difficult buttoning clothes, typing, or holding utensils.
Fingers Curling
Do one or more fingers start to curl inward and you cannot straighten them? If this is the case, it may signal contracture and cause problems with hand movement.
Pain or Discomfort in the Palm
Not everyone with Dupuytren’s contracture feels pain, but some people feel discomfort in the palm due to thickened tissues.
Growth of Lumps and Cords
The condition often starts with small lumps, called nodules, in the palm. Over time, these lumps may turn into thick cords under the skin, pulling the fingers downward.
When Should You See a Specialist?
Not everyone with Dupuytren’s contracture will require treatment immediately. However, it is essential to seek medical advice if you notice worsening symptoms. The earlier you intervene, the more options you may have to improve hand function.
It is important to find a trusted hand specialist, like Dr. Tosca Kinchelow at The Orthopaedic Hand and Arm Center. She can assess the severity of your condition and recommend suitable treatments.
The Tabletop Test
Medical professionals often use the “tabletop test” as a preliminary assessment. They will see if you cannot lay your palm flat on a tabletop. If this is the case, it could indicate significant contracture, and treatment might be necessary.
Dupuytren’s Contracture Treatment Options
Thankfully, there are several Dupuytren’s contracture treatment options available. The right choice for you depends on the severity of your condition. Your orthopedic doctor will also consider your overall health and your personal preferences.
1. Non-Surgical Options
Non-surgical treatments are typically suitable for those in the early stages of Dupuytren’s contracture. They are also recommended for individuals who wish to avoid surgery.
Collagenase Injection Therapy
This involves injecting an FDA-approved enzyme, collagenase, into the affected tissue. The enzyme breaks down the collagen cords causing contracture. After the injection, your specialist will manipulate the hand to improve finger movement.
Needle Aponeurotomy (Needling)
This is a minimally invasive treatment. It involves using a thin needle to puncture and break up the thickened cords of tissue. This treatment provides immediate relief and allows most individuals to regain hand function without significant downtime.
Physical Therapy
After treatment, physical therapy can help improve hand strength. It can also help prevent the recurrence of contracture. A therapist can also teach stretches and exercises to enhance the range of motion in your fingers.
2. Surgical Options
Surgery may be the best course of action for those with advanced Dupuytren’s contracture. It is also often recommended when non-surgical treatments are not effective.
Fasciectomy
This is a common surgical procedure where the surgeon removes the thickened tissue bands causing the contracture. This approach helps restore hand mobility but requires a longer recovery period.
Dermofasciectomy
This procedure is similar to a fasciectomy. However, it includes the removal of the affected skin overlying the thickened tissue. A skin graft is often used to replace the removed skin. This option reduces the risk of recurrence.
Joint Fusion
Sometimes, people with severe cases cannot fully straighten the contracted finger. When this happens, surgeons may fuse the joint in a functional position. Although this limits movement in the finger, it prevents further contracture.
Amputation (Rare Cases)
Amputation is only considered when Dupuytren’s contracture has caused irreversible damage. It may be recommended if no other options are viable.
Factors to Consider Before Choosing Treatment
When deciding on a treatment plan, discussions with your medical providers will include:
- The extent of your contracture and its impact on hand function
- Risk factors, such as age and existing medical conditions
- Recovery time needed and potential side effects of each treatment
Your treatment should be tailored to your lifestyle and goals, ensuring the best possible outcome.
Dupuytren’s Contracture Treatment in Miami Lakes, FL
Living with Dupuytren’s contracture does not have to limit your quality of life. It is important to understand when to seek treatment and explore available options. Doing so can make a significant difference in regaining hand function and comfort. Are you or a loved one experiencing symptoms of Dupuytren’s contracture? Do not wait for the condition to worsen.
The Orthopaedic Hand and Arm Center’s board-certified hand surgeon, Dr. Tosca Kinchelow, specializes in Dupuytren’s contracture treatment and helping patients reclaim their independence. Call us at (954) 635-5300 or use our online appointment request form today. Together, we can create a personalized treatment plan to improve your hand health and functionality.
We look forward to serving you!
