Dupuytren's Contracture

Name: Dupuytren's Contracture
Brand: Elanic Medical
Rating: 4.4 (137 reviews)

Dupuytren's Contracture is a condition that affects the hands, causing the fingers to bend towards the palm, making it difficult to straighten them.

Treating Dupuytren's Contracture

Dupuytren's Contracture is a progressive disease that usually develops slowly over time. While it is not life-threatening, it can have a significant impact on a person's ability to perform everyday tasks, thanks to its impact on the hands and fingers. In severe cases, it can even affect an individual’s ability to work, making treatment vital. Treatment for Dupuytren's Contracture in Glasgow options vary depending on the severity of the condition and can range from non-surgical interventions to surgical procedures, all of which are offered at Elanic Medical’s state-of-the-art Glasgow medical facility. If you’d like to learn more about how we can work with you to help you find the relief you need, reach out to Elanic Medical in Glasgow and speak with a helpful member of our team to set up your initial consultation today.

Do I Have Dupuytren's Contracture?

Dupuytren's Contracture is a progressive condition that affects the hands and fingers, causing the connective tissue in the palm of the hand to thicken and form nodules. Over time, these nodules can develop into cords that pull the fingers inward, making it difficult to straighten them.

The symptoms of Dupuytren's Contracture usually appear gradually and can vary in severity. The most common symptom is a thickening of the skin on the palm of the hand, which may feel tender or painful. As the disease progresses, small nodules may develop under the skin. These nodules can eventually form cords that extend into the fingers, causing them to bend inward. Other symptoms may include:

Difficulty gripping objects
Pain or discomfort when using the affected hand
Difficulty performing everyday tasks
Trouble with fine motor functions, like buttoning clothes or holding a pen

What Causes Dupuytren’s Contracture?

The exact cause of Dupuytren's Contracture is unknown. However, it is believed to be caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors. The disease is more common in people of Northern European descent and is more common in men than women. Some researchers believe that Dupuytren's Contracture may be linked to certain medical conditions, such as diabetes, thyroid disease, and epilepsy. It may also be linked to certain medications, such as anticonvulsants and cholesterol-lowering drugs.

Am I at Risk?

There are several factors that may increase a person's risk of developing Dupuytren's Contracture. These include:

Age: The disease is more common in people over the age of 50
Gender: Men are more likely to develop the disease than women
Family history: The disease tends to run in families
Northern European descent: The disease is more common in people of Northern European descent
Smoking: Smoking may increase the risk of developing the disease

Non-Surgical Treatments

For mild cases of Dupuytren's Contracture in Glasgow, non-surgical options may be recommended. These include:

Physical therapy: exercises to improve range of motion and flexibility of the fingers
Splinting: wearing a splint to keep the affected fingers straight and prevent further contracture
Needle aponeurotomy: a minimally invasive procedure where a needle is used to break up the cords causing the contracture

Surgical Options

If non-surgical options are not effective or the contracture is severe, surgery may be necessary.

Fasciotomy

This is a surgical procedure where the surgeon cuts the cords, causing the contracture to release the affected fingers.

Fasciectomy

This option is a more extensive procedure where the surgeon removes the cords causing the contracture and any surrounding tissue.

Collagen Injection

An injection of an enzyme can break down the cords causing the contracture, followed by manipulation of the affected fingers to release the contracture.

The Recovery Experience

Recovery time will depend on the severity of the contracture and the type of treatment received. After surgery, physical therapy may be necessary to regain the full function of the affected hand. It is important to follow all post-operative instructions provided by the surgeon to ensure proper healing and minimise the risk of complications.

Schedule Your Consultation Today

Dupuytren's Contracture is a condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It is a progressive disease that can cause a significant amount of pain and discomfort, as well as limit the patient's ability to use their hand. While there is currently no cure for Dupuytren's Contracture, there are several treatment options available that can help manage the symptoms and slow the progression of the disease, offered here at our state-of-the-art medical facility.

For more than 10 years now, Elanic Medical has been earning a reputation for excellence in Glasgow and beyond. To learn more about how Elanic Medical can help you, reach out to our Glasgow location and speak with a member of our team to set up your initial consultation today.