Dupuytren’s Contracture
Dupuytren’s Contracture Treatment in Fort Lauderdale, FL and Margate, FL
Dupuytren’s Contracture is a hand deformity that usually develops over years. The condition affects a layer of tissue under the palm; knots form under the skin, which eventually creates a thick cord that pulls on one or more fingers, putting them into a bent position.
Dupuytren’s Contracture Risks
Many factors increase your risk of this disease, including:
- Age – This condition occurs most commonly after the age of 50
- Sex – Men are more likely to develop this disease, and have more severe cases than women
- Ancestry – People of Northern European descent are at higher risk of this disease
- Family History – Dupuytren’s Contracture often runs in families
- Tobacco and Alcohol Use – Smoking and the consumption of alcohol are associated with an increased risk of this disease
- Diabetes – People with diabetes are reported to have an increased risk
Dupuytren’s Contracture Treatment
If the disease progresses slowly, causes no pain, and has little impact on the person’s ability to use their hands for everyday tasks, they may not need treatment. However, for many, treatment involves breaking up or removing the cords that are pulling on the fingers toward the palm. There are several ways of doing this including:
- Needling – In this technique, needles are inserted through the skin to puncture and break the cord of tissue that contracts a finger
- Enzyme Injections – A type of enzyme is injected into the taut cord in the palm to help soften or weaken it, which allows manipulation of the hand in an attempt to break the cords
- Surgery – This is an option for those with a more advanced stage of this disease where damaged tissue is surgically removed to relieve pain and provide a longer-lasting result