Our hands are marvels of evolution, enabling us to perform various functions, from the delicate to the strenuous. But like any other part of our body, they can be affected by certain conditions that might hinder their optimal functionality. One such condition that commonly affects the hands is Dupuytren’s Contracture. It’s a progressive condition that involves the hand’s connective tissue, gradually causing the fingers to bend towards the palm. At Lake Country Plastic and Hand Surgery in Waukesha, WI, Dr. Tracy McCall has consistently encountered and successfully treated cases of Dupuytren’s Contracture, ensuring her patients regain optimal hand functionality.
Dupuytren’s Contracture: Symptoms and Treatment Pathways
Dupuytren’s Contracture typically commences with forming nodules in the palm, which can be tender to touch initially. As the disease advances, these nodules can give rise to cords that pull the fingers toward the palm, making everyday activities increasingly challenging.
Symptoms of Dupuytren’s Contracture:
- Nodule Formation: Small, hard lumps that form in the palm. Over time, these can grow and multiply.
- Finger Contraction: The fingers, especially the ring and pinky fingers, start to bend towards the palm.
- Stiffness and Pain: The affected fingers may feel stiff, with some pain or discomfort that typically reduces as the condition progresses.
- Difficulty in Hand Movements: Tasks like placing the hand flat on a surface become increasingly difficult.
The approach to treating Dupuytren’s Contracture depends on its severity and the discomfort or inconvenience it poses to the patient. Below, we’re going to discuss the various types of treatment that are commonly used. Dr. McCall will discuss which are appropriate for your case of Dupuytren’s Contracture.
- Needling: A needle is used to puncture and break the cord pulling the fingers and allowing them to straighten. This procedure can be done in an outpatient setting.
- Enzyme Injections: Enzymatic medication can be injected into the cord to soften and weaken it, facilitating the straightening of the fingers.
- Surgical Removal: In more severe cases where the above methods are ineffective, the affected tissue can be surgically removed.
- Radiation Therapy: Used for early-stage cases, this method can relieve symptoms and potentially delay the progression.
Recognizing and addressing the initial signs of Dupuytren’s Contracture can make a difference in its management. With a condition progressively affecting the hand’s functionality, seeking timely and expert intervention becomes paramount. Dr. Tracy McCall, based at Lake Country Plastic and Hand Surgery in Waukesha, WI, brings her extensive experience and expertise in hand conditions to provide comprehensive care tailored to individual patient needs. Whether you’ve just begun to notice symptoms or are struggling with the advanced stages of the condition, Dr. McCall and her dedicated team are here to guide and assist you.
Visit Lake Country Plastic and Hand Surgery for Expert Dupuytren’s Contracture Care
Prioritize the health and functionality of your hands. Contact Lake Country Plastic and Hand Surgery at (262) 523-1200. Entrust your hands to a specialist dedicated to ensuring their optimal health. Dr. Tracy McCall is here to help you every step of the way, providing expert guidance and treatments.
