Read This Before Using Best Treatment Options for Dupuytren’s Contracture

Dupuytren’s contracture is a disease that develops when the fibrous layer of the tissue that lies underneath the palm gets affected. In some patients, it interferes with your hand’s functions and makes it difficult to perform daily activities. There is no specific cause of Dupuytren’s contracture. However, genetics is mostly considered a major cause of this. There are a few best treatments for Dupuytren’s contracture which are available.

Here are some things that you must know before moving on to them:

Symptom

• At first, you might notice small lump or nodules in the palm of your hand. Initially, the nodules feel tender to the touch. With the progress of contracture, their tenderness usually goes away.
• In a later stage, those nodules thicken and contract and form dense and tough cords of tissue under your skin. These cords restrict the fingers and thumb from straightening or from spreading apart.
• As it progresses, your fingers start pulling inwards towards your palm, and it may become hard to fully straighten them, which makes it difficult for you to grasp objects and perform simple activities.

Risk factors

• Men are more likely to develop this condition than women.
• It is considered that people of northern Europe ancestry are more likely to develop this condition due to its link.
• Dupuytren’s contracture often runs in the family. If your family members have this condition, then there is a high chance that you might develop it as well.
• People who consume alcohol may also be associated with Dupuytren’s contracture.
• People with diabetes and seizure disorders are also at high risk of this disease.
• The chances of developing this disease increase with age.

Treatments

Taping: Taping restricts the pressure on your hand and keeps your fingers in an extended position. It provides constant stretch to your fingers and improves the range of motion of your hand and fingers. It is usually used after surgical treatment to protect the area.

Massage wand: The massage wand on the affected area increases the flexibility underneath your palm’s skin. It reduces tightness and tenderness and even delays the need for surgery. Using a massage wand is considered the best treatment for Dupuytren’s contracture at an early stage. However, still, it is important to consult your physician first before following any of the treatment options.

Steroid injections: Corticosteroids are powerful anti-inflammatory medications injected into the nodule. In some cases, these injections slow the progress of contracture. Its effectiveness varies from patient to patient and the stage of your contracture.

Dupuytren’s contracture usually progresses very slowly and might not affect your daily life activities. If it progresses, it would be best to try the non-surgical treatment first. It is considered the best treatment for Dupuytren’s contracture, especially during the initial stages. If your symptoms do not improve then you might need to consult your physician about surgical treatment.