This week Check-up looks at Dupuytren's contraction
Over the last couple of years the tendons on the palm of my hand have become raised, with the result my little finger and ring finger have contracted and I am unable to open them fully. Unfortunately I now seem to be developing the same problem with my right hand. Any ideas what it might be?
It sounds like a condition known as Dupuytren's contracture which is caused by a thickening of the fibrous bands which run from the palm into the fingers.
The little and ring fingers are most commonly affected but it can affect other fingers also.
The fingers contract towards the palm and cannot be straightened.
If the fingers are fully contracted it can lead to reduced functional use of the hand and also skin problems.
My father had the same problem - is there a family tendency to this condition?
Although the actual trigger for this disease is as yet unknown, we do know that it is more common in men and there is a tendency for it to run in families.
There is no proven relationship to trauma, occupation or repetitive use in work or sports.
Although it is more common in those over the age of 60, it can be also associated with other conditions including epilepsy, diabetes, and cirrhosis of the liver.
Apart from not being able to use these two fingers properly, I am finding it difficult to wash and dry under them.
Is there an operation I can have to fix them?
Unfortunately there are no non-surgical treatments for Dupuytren's contracture and operations are usually reserved for those with severe disability as a result of the condition.
The contractures can be released by a surgical procedure which aims to remove the contracted tissue and release the joints.
Following surgery the fingers are dressed and the hand placed in a splint which keeps the fingers and wrist in extension.
Rehabilitation after surgery will include physiotherapy and occupational therapy and the use of splints may be required on an ongoing basis.
However, post-operative pain, numbness and pins and needles in the finger tips can occur following the procedure as a result of the delicate nerves in the fingers being damaged.
My advice to you and anyone developing this type of hand problem is to seek medical advice preferably before severe contractures occur, and in particular if the deformity increases rapidly.