Dupuytrens disease
Dupuytren’s disease can present as tightness or lumps in the palm of your hand. Over time the condition can restrict how much your fingers can straighten affecting your ability to carry out every day tasks.
The Precision Clinic specialises in treating this type of condition. We are able to offer you community based care near to your home with the benefit of faster access and minimal waiting times.
What Is Dupuytren’s Disease?
This condition is progressive and over time can cause the connective tissue in the palm of your hand to thicken and tighten. This leads to bending of the fingers ( most often the ring and little finger) and can affect your ability to carry out daily tasks like writing or gripping objects.
What Causes Dupuytren’s Disease?
The exact cause of Dupuytren’s disease is unknown, but it’s believed to involve a combination of genetic and environmental factors.
- Family history: The condition often runs in families.
- Age: It’s more common in people over 50.
- Gender: Men are more likely to develop it than women.
- Lifestyle factors: Smoking and alcohol consumption may increase the risk.
- Health conditions: Diabetes and other conditions are linked to Dupuytren’s.
Symptoms of Dupuytren’s Disease
Symptoms vary between patients and can include;
- Painless but firm lumps in the palm
- Thickened cords comprising bands of tissue which pull the fingers into a bent position.
- Restricted ability to straighten one or more fingers
- Worsening of symptoms over time.
How Is Dupuytren’s Disease Diagnosed?
At your consultation our specialists will take your medical history and carry out a physical examination to identify any nodules or cords in your palms and your ability to straighten your fingers.
Treatment Options for Dupuytren’s Disease
Non-Surgical Options
- Steroid injections can be used to reduce inflammation and in some cases slow the progression of the condition.
- Needle fasciotomy: This is a minimally invasive procedure which can release the cords.
Surgical Treatment
Depending on the severity and impact of the disease your consultant will discuss with you if surgery would be beneficial.
Examples include;
- Fasciectomy: The affected tissue is removed to restore finger movement.
- Dermofasciectomy: In severe cases, the diseased tissue and overlying skin are removed.
What to Expect After Treatment
After treatment our in-house team of specialists will continue to support your recovery. Examples of post treatment care include;
- Post-treatment exercises: Our team of physiotherapists will work with you to formulate a place to help you regain your hand function. This will include various stretching exercises to help your recovery.
- Splinting: Sometimes used after surgery to keep fingers straight.
- Long-term care: The condition can recur, so regular follow up consultations are essential.
Why Choose The Precision Clinic?
The Precision Clinic offers holistic, patient focused care plans to help you regain hand function and improve your quality of life.
- Specialist expertise: Our team specialises in hand and wrist conditions.
- Quick access: No waiting lists, so you can access treatment quickly.
- Patient-centred approach: Your treatment plan is built around your needs and recovery goals
We are located in a purpose-built facility in your community where we combine the latest medical techniques with the comfort and convenience of local care.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is most likely to develop Dupuytren’s disease?
It’s most common in men over 50, especially those with a family history of the condition.
Can Dupuytren’s disease be cured?
Currently there is no cure, however treatments like surgery and needle fasciotomy can significantly improve hand function.
Is Dupuytren’s disease painful?
Most people don’t experience pain, though the lumps in the palm can sometimes be tender.
How long does recovery take after surgery?
Recovery times vary between patients depending on the severity of the conition, activity levels and previous medical condition. Many patients resume light activities within a few weeks.
Can Dupuytren’s disease come back after treatment?
Yes, recurrence is possible, but regular follow-ups and early treatment can help manage it.
Contact us today
If Dupuytren’s disease is impacting your ability to carry out daily tasks please do not hesitate to contact us to arrange a consultation. At The Precision Clinic, we offer expert diagnosis and tailored treatment plans to help you regain function and improve your ability to carry out everyday activities.