Dupuytren’s contracture is a painless condition that affects the hand, causing one or more fingers to bend toward the palm. As the condition progresses, the affected fingers cannot straighten completely, leading to a claw-like appearance.
Symptoms of Dupuytren’s Contracture:
- Nodule or Lump: A lump or nodule appears on the palm, typically near the base of the ring or little finger.
- Thickened Cord: A thickened cord may develop along the palm leading to the fingers.
- Clawed Fingers: Over time, the affected fingers may become clawed as they are pulled toward the palm.
- Bowed Hand: The overall shape of the hand may become bowed.
- Complete Flexion: In advanced stages, the fingers can be completely pulled against the palm.
- Skin Changes: The skin on the palm may appear dimpled and puckered.
- Minimal Pain: Dupuytren’s contracture is typically painless.
Causes of Dupuytren’s Contracture:
- Age: This condition is more prevalent in middle to later years of life.
- Gender: Males are three times more likely to develop Dupuytren’s contracture and often experience more severe symptoms.
- Ancestry: Individuals with Celtic or Scandinavian ancestry are at a higher risk of developing the condition.
- Medical Conditions: People with diabetes and epilepsy have a higher incidence of Dupuytren’s contracture, while those with rheumatoid arthritis may experience a lower incidence.
- Alcoholism: The condition tends to be more common and severe in individuals with a history of alcoholism.
Treatment and Management:
Occupational therapists play a crucial role in helping individuals manage the challenges associated with Dupuytren’s contracture. They are skilled at addressing functional limitations that may arise, such as difficulties with daily activities. Treatment strategies include:
- Adaptive Techniques: Teaching patients how to adapt their daily tasks to cope with reduced hand function.
- Assistive Devices: Introducing assistive devices to enhance functional abilities. For example, specialized equipment can help patients open jars or manipulate objects despite contractures.
- Therapeutic Exercises: Providing exercises to maintain hand mobility and strength.
For patients in the later stages of Dupuytren’s contracture, occupational therapy can focus on developing adaptive techniques and using assistive devices to improve daily living skills. If you or someone you know is struggling with Dupuytren’s contracture, consider consulting an occupational therapist for a personalized treatment plan to enhance your quality of life.
At Reddy Care Physical and Occupational Therapy, we can get you set up with the right therapist for you. Call today to schedule a consultation!
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Sources: Resource 1 Resource 2
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Written by:
Dr. Vinod Somareddy, PT, DPT
President
Reddy Care Physical Therapy
Reddy Care Occupational Therapy
Reddy Care Aquatic Therapy
Author
Reddy Care Physical & Occupational Therapy
Reddy Care Physical & Occupational Therapy is an outstanding specialty service providing exceptional care and state-of-the-art treatments for the residents of Farmingdale and Great Neck, New York. The combination of innovative exercise programs, manual therapy, and technology together with the expertise of every member of the team enables Reddy Care Physical & Occupational Therapy to provide services that ensure superior clinical outcomes and consistently high patient satisfaction.
