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Can Dupuytren’s Contracture Be Painful?

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Can Dupuytren Contracture Be Painful?

Is Dupuytren’s contracture painful in some instances? Find out what can be done about it.

Have you ever noticed small, tender bumps in the fleshy part of your palms?

Those lumps could be a sign of Dupuytren’s contracture (DC), a condition in the hands that can result in limited functioning or your muscles. And, in some cases, can cause pain.

It’s important to learn everything you can about this condition to be able to prevent it and/or treat it. You may only have the beginning symptoms, but now is the most important time to understand what’s going on in your hands.

To learn how to treat your dupuytren contracture, keep reading.

What is Dupuytren’s Contracture?

Our hands have fibrous bands that stretch from your palm to the ends of your fingers. These bands are flexible and elastic when they’re healthy.

When someone has DC, those bands of tissue develop lumps that eventually cause the tissue to grow thicker. Those lumps can sometimes feel sore or tender, or not feel like anything at all. However, they are an indication of onset DC.

As the tissue becomes thicker, it contracts the bands that connect to your fingers causing them to curl inwards.

In severe cases, it causes hand deformity and loss of mobility in the hands.

What Causes It?

There hasn’t been a direct cause discovered for Dupuytren’s contracture yet. We do know that it isn’t caused by overuse of the hands or from an injury.

Research has shown that it is more common in men than women, especially men over the age of 50.

It’s also been proven to be hereditary; people of Northern Europe descent are more likely to have Dupuytren’s contracture.

As with many health conditions, the risk factors include smoking, alcohol consumption, and diabetes. It’s also been known to exist alongside other hand conditions like arthritis.

Symptoms

The first sign of DC is noticing 1-2 small lumps that develop in the palm of your hand. These lumps might be tender, or they may not be sensitive at all.

Your pinky and ring fingers are more commonly affected than your thumb, index, and middle fingers. You may notice some stiffness in these fingers.

It’s important you see a doctor as soon as you notice these lumps in your hands. Dupuytren’s contracture usually develops slowly over multiple years; monitoring it from the beginning will help doctors know what kind of treatment will work for you.

Is Dupuytren’s Contracture Painful?

There’s been some controversy over whether DC is a painful condition. For most patients, it is not painful. Your hands may feel stiff, tender, or uncomfortable.

In the minority of cases, there is pain present in the hands. The lumps can sometimes be very sensitive and sore. What we know from research is that if you experience pain at the onset of the condition, along with itchiness, that may be an indication that it is a more aggressive form of DC.

When to See a Doctor

You should see your family doctor as soon as you notice any lumps in your palms. They will likely do an exam on your hands to accurately diagnose the lumps and determine a solution.

The exam consists of your doctor checking the mobility of your hands, wrists, and fingers. They will feel the lumps and record how many. They may ask you to place your palm on the table to see if your hand can lay flat or ask you to pick up small items only using your thumb and a finger in a pinching motion.

These exams will need to happen regularly since this condition develops over many years.

Knowing your baseline exam records will help doctors see how fast the condition is developing; recording your symptoms can help dictate which method of treatment you use.

Treatment

Unfortunately, there is no cure for dupuytren contracture.

Even with the best treatments, there’s always a chance it could return. Luckily, it isn’t a life-threatening condition and many patients continue to lead full and happy lives with it.

There are a few different treatments available as well as preventative techniques. We’ll address each method in detail, so you can make a more informed decision, along with your doctor, on which one is right for you.

1. Preventative Measures

If you have a familial history of developing dupuytren contracture, it’s wise to go the extra mile with your hand health.

Stretching

Conservative stretching is a great way to maintain the flexibility in your hand’s fibrous bands. DC causes these bands to lose their elasticity, so stretching can help prolong or prevent the onset.

Start by gently bending the hand backward at the wrist to stretch out the bottom of your palm. Then, bend each finger backward to gently stretch the bands that connect the fingers to the palm. Bend the hand forward at the wrist to stretch the back of your hand.

Another beneficial stretch is to place your hand as flat as possible on a table, then lift up the palm while your fingertips remain on the surface. This feels wonderful on your finger tissues as well as your palm.

Massage

Whenever you notice soreness or stiffness in your hands, it can be soothing to give yourself a hand massage. Using anti-inflammatory creams, or lanolin ointment can reduce the tenderness.

Try using the thumb of your opposite hand to massage your palm and roll out any tension or stiffness. Massage the tendon upwards and downwards along the fingers.

In addition to stretching and massaging, avoid using a tight grip to lift anything unless it has cushion tape. Anytime you must do a task that requires gripping, consider using heavily padded gloves.

2. Medication

Your doctor might want to start treating your dupuytren contracture with medication since it’s less invasive than surgery. As mentioned above, there is no cure for DC, but these medications can greatly improve your condition.

Corticosteroid

One type of medication is a corticosteroid injection. This is an anti-inflammatory agent which will reduce the swelling and tenderness in your hands.

Although it does an excellent job of reducing any pain, it cannot reverse the contraction that has already occurred. However, it may prevent future contraction.

Collagenase

Another injection your doctor might choose is a collagenase injection. This medicine is made up of enzymes that dissolve the thickened tissue by weakening the tight bands.

Although it is a beneficial treatment, it can cause swelling, bleeding, and bruising in your hands.

With any type of injection, you may feel pain at the injection site. Some doctors will offer a topical anesthetic for patients who can’t tolerate pain from needles.

3. Traditional Dupuytren Contracture Surgery

If you’ve tried medicinal treatments and they didn’t improve your condition, it may be time to consider surgery.

The traditional, and most invasive, surgery for DC requires the surgeon to create an open incision and cut off the excess thick tissue in your palms. Patients can be put under anesthesia for this process.

As with any surgery, this one also comes with some risks: infection in the incision, damage to the nerves, and even potentially permanent finger stiffness. You should weigh the risks against the benefits to see if this treatment option is worth it to you.

Most patients fully recover after several months post-surgery and endure some swelling and stiffness after the procedure. Unfortunately, research has stated that the condition recurrence rate is 20% of people who have this surgery.

Physical therapy is usually required after surgery to help heal the hands and get them accustomed to broader functioning.

4. Aponeurotomy

This is another type of surgery that is less invasive than the traditional procedure, sometimes referred to as needling.

A specialized hand surgeon will use sharp needles to penetrate through the skin and cut loose the tight bands in your palms. There is no open incision, so the recovery process is faster than the traditional procedure.

Although it’s less invasive, it is also less effective when used to treat DC on its own. In conjunction with corticosteroid injections and self-massage, the outlook is much more successful.

5. Radiation

Another option for less invasive treatment is radiation therapy. Using low energy, the radiation can help reduce symptoms or halt them before they get worse. This often involves treating the lumps or nodules, and the bands in your hands.

Although this is an option for dupuytren contracture treatment, it hasn’t been studied nearly as much as the previous four options.

Interested in Learning More?

The hands are vulnerable to a variety of conditions besides dupuytren contracture.

Since your hands require the optimal functioning of so many different parts (muscles, nerves, bands, nails, etc.) it’s best to always be aware of any potential symptoms you may be experiencing.

Never be afraid to ask your doctor to look into what you’re experiencing, it could be the difference between having healthy hands and potentially losing function of them.

If you’d like to learn more about our services or have questions about possible treatment options, call us today!

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Conditions Fingers General Hands

Is Dupuytren’s Contracture The Same As Trigger Finger?

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Is Dupuytren Contracture The Same As Trigger Finger

Is Dupuytren Contracture the same as Trigger Finger?

Are Dupuytren contracture and trigger finger the same thing?
The answer to that question is no.

Upon first glance, these two things might seem very similar, but they are actually very different medical conditions. In fact, the only similarity is that they both affect finger flexion.

Trigger finger involves the tendons, and Dupuytren contractor involves the tissue. Trigger finger is usually brought about by finger injuries, but Dupuytren comes about a little more mysteriously. Medical professionals aren’t entirely sure what causes Dupuytren.

So let’s spend a bit of time breaking these two conditions down.

Take a look at this guide to find the differences between trigger finger and Dupuytren and to learn how each condition can be treated.

What Is Trigger Finger?

Trigger finger is also known as stenosing tenosynovitis, and it causes one or more of your fingers to get stuck in a bent position.

But doesn’t make them completely stuck. People with trigger finger can usually still straighten their fingers, though it may take more work than normal and will make a snapping or clicking sound, similar to the trigger of a gun being pulled.

When your finger tendons pass from your arm through the palm of your hand, they are surrounded by a protective fibrous sheath.

Trigger finger occurs when inflammation narrows the sheath around the tendons and a nodule forms, usually from injury. Flexing your fingers forces the nodule to slide through the narrow sheath with a snap.

This is most common in the index and middle finger and the thumb (then called trigger thumb).

What is Dupuytren Contracture?

Dupuytren also causes one or more of your fingers to be stuck in a bent position, but that’s where the similarities stop.

Dupuytren can take years to develop completely, and it’s a hand deformity that affects the tissue in the palm of your hand.

This condition starts when that tissue starts to form knots under the skin of your palm. As these knots continue to form, they will create a cord that pulls one or two fingers into a bent position.

Unlike trigger finger, these bent fingers can’t be fully straightened again when this happens. Because of this, everyday activities, even ones as simple as shaking someone’s hand, become difficult.

This condition is most common in the pink and ring finger.

Symptoms of Trigger Finger

Though trigger finger is most common in the first two fingers and thumb, it can also develop in other fingers. More than one finger and even both hands can be affected at the same time.

Most people experience trigger finger in the dominant hand. Here are some of the symptoms that come along with trigger finger.

  • Your finger clicks when you move it
  • Stiffness, especially when you first wake up
  • A bump at the base of the finger
  • Tenderness
  • Finger sticking in a bent position then popping out of it
  • Bent finger you can’t straighten

You will most likely notice trigger finger symptoms when you’re grasping objects or flexing your fingers in the morning.

Symptoms of Dupuytren Contracture

These symptoms might be harder to notice because they can form over multiple years. Because the onset is slow, you might not realize you have these symptoms until they are more pronounced.

Here are some of the things you should look out for.

  • Thickening skin on the palm
  • Dimpled or puckered skin on the palm
  • A sensitive lump of tissue forms on the palm (usually isn’t painful)
  • A noticeable cord forms under the skin that reaches your fingers
  • Fingers that are pulled toward the palm

This can also affect any finger on either hand, though it is much rarer in your index finger and thumb. If someone has it in both hands, one hand is normally worse than the other.

What Causes Trigger Finger?

Trigger finger is usually caused by overuse and injury.

In some cases, all it takes is one large injury to bring about trigger finger, but sometimes it forms from small or repeated injuries.

What Causes Dupuytren Contracture?

There is no clear cause for Dupuytren. This condition doesn’t seem to be connected with any injuries.

Who’s More Likely to Get Trigger Finger?

Anyone can suffer from trigger finger, but it’s more likely to occur in females and people with diabetes. People with jobs that require gripping repetitively are more likely to get trigger finger than people who don’t make those same hand movements as often.

Who’s More Likely to Get Dupuytren Contracture?

Although medical professionals still don’t know what exactly causes Dupuytren, they do have some ideas of who is at more risk to experience this condition.

It is most commonly found in European men who are older than 50. It also seems to run in a family line. In other words, people with family members that have had Dupuytren are more likely to get it themselves.

Like trigger finger, people with diabetes are also more likely to get Dupuytren.

Can You Have Trigger Finger and Dupuytren Contracture at the Same Time?

These two conditions are not the same thing, but a person can experience both trigger finger and Dupuytren contracture at the same time.

How Is Trigger Finger Diagnosed?

In most cases, doctors don’t have to perform any serious tests. They can diagnose your hand after a simple physical exam.

This exam might include you opening your hands and closing your hands, and the doctor will check for things like smooth motion, locking fingers, and places of pain.

The doctor will probably look for a lump in your palm near the base of the afflicted finger.

After the doctor looks for these symptoms, they will be able to diagnose you with trigger finger.

How Is Dupuytren Contracture Diagnosed?

The diagnoses for Dupuytren is also fairly simple and doesn’t require anything elaborate. Again, all the doctor has to do is perform a physical exam on your hand.

Your doctor will look for common symptoms of Dupuytren, such as dimpled or puckered skin on your palm, tissue knots in your palm, and fingers that are locked in a bent position.

If you’re in the early stages of Dupuytren, the doctor may have you flatten your hand against a tabletop to see how far your fingers can straighten. Inability to straighten your fingers completely is a sure sign you have Dupuytren.

Finger Trigger Treatments

The treatments for trigger finger depend on the severity of your particular case. If the trigger finger hasn’t progressed to a serious stage, the doctor might suggest some finger and hand therapy.

This could include things like:

  • A finger splint to wear at night to help your tendons relax
  • Stretching exercises to keep the mobility of your fingers
  • Rest to avoid overusing or injuring your fingers

If the trigger finger is more severe, your doctor might try a steroid injection. They will inject this medication into the constricted sheath, which will help it relax and provide smoother movement. An injection like this can fix the problem for over a year.

In some cases, your doctor might also try a percutaneous release. This means the doctor will, after numbing your finger, insert a needle into the tissue and break the nodule that’s preventing free movement.

Lastly, there is also an option for surgery. During this surgery, the doctor will create a tiny incision on your finger and cut open the damaged sheath.

Dupuytren Contracture Treatments

If you don’t have a serious case of Dupuytren, you may not need any treatment at all. As long as your condition isn’t making it difficult to perform daily tasks and has no pain, your hand may do better on its own.

However, more serious cases require treatments that break apart the knotted tissue and the cord that’s pulling the fingers into a bent position. There are several different ways to do this.

Needling

A doctor will insert a needle into your palm and use it to break apart the knotted tissue at the base of your afflicted fingers. This is not a permanent fix because the cord will often reform. However, the treatment can be repeated many times.

Doctors may recommend this treatment because it doesn’t take a lot of time to heal or recuperate the hand. It can also be done on several fingers at the same time, so if you have a lot of fingers affected by Dupuytren, this may be a good option.

Enzyme Treatments

These enzymes can be injected into the cord of tissue in your palm. They will then weaken the cord, which makes it easier for your doctor to move your fingers and break the cord.

Surgery

Doctors use this treatment for people with advanced forms of Dupuytren. During the surgery, they will remove the knotted tissue in your hand. This treatment lasts longer than both needling and enzyme injections.

This surgery does require physical therapy and a longer recovery time than other methods.

If You Notice Any Symptoms, Go See a Doctor

Whether you experience symptoms of trigger finger or Dupuytren contracture, you should make an appointment with a doctor right away. They will be able to give you a proper diagnosis and a medical plan for the future.

Experience finger problems that don’t seem to match either of these conditions? Check out this guide to make sure you don’t have nerve damage.

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Conditions Fingers General Hands

What are the Causes of Dupuytren’s Contracture?

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What is Dupuytren's contracture and what causes it? How is Dupuytren's contracture treated? These are some of the questions our hand doctor can answer. This is a closeup image of hand affected by the disease.

Do you think you’re one of the approximately seven percent of Americans dealing with Dupuytren’s contracture? Do you even know what this surprisingly common condition is?

Read on to learn more about what Dupuytren’s contracture is and for some useful information on how to treat it and improve your quality of life.

What is Dupuytren’s Contracture?

Let’s start by clearing up what Dupuytren’s contracture actually is.

Dupuytren’s contracture, which is also known as Dupuytren’s disease, is a condition that involves the tightening and thickening of the fascia (connective tissue) of the fingers and palm of the hand.

Normally, fascia is very elastic. But, for people suffering from this condition, the fascia is tight, to the point where it can cause the fingers to curl inward. It can even cause severe deformities that limit overall hand function.

Common Causes

Dupuytren’s disease doesn’t have a single known cause. But researchers have found that it often runs in families, and people of certain heritages are more likely to develop it.

Those who are more susceptible to the condition include people of Northern European or Scandinavian descent.

Certain illnesses and lifestyle factors can influence a person’s likelihood of Dupuytren’s contracture, too. Common ones include:

  • Excessive alcohol consumption
  • Diabetes
  • Epilepsy and seizure disorders
  • Smoking

Men who are in their 40s or older are also more likely to develop Dupuytren’s disease than women. For both genders, the chances of being diagnosed increase with age.

Symptoms

How do you know if you have Dupuytren’s contracture?

Most people start by noticing small lumps, or nodules, under the skin on the palm of their hand. The nodules will usually be sore and tender at first, but the discomfort will subside with time.

After they first develop, these nodules will cause tough bands of connective tissue to appear under the skin. These bands will cause the fingers to curl inward and will hinder one’s ability to straighten their fingers.

The ring and pinkie fingers often are affected first.

Dupuytren’s contracture usually affects both hands, but one hand may present more serious symptoms than the other.

As the condition progresses, it can become difficult to perform everyday tasks like placing your hands in your pockets or picking up large objects. Even actions like shaking hands, wearing gloves, or placing your hand flat on a surface become challenging.

When Should You See a Hand Doctor?

The sooner you speak to a doctor about your condition, the sooner you can start treatment and avoid the debilitating symptoms that occur as the disease progresses.

If you notice lumps on your palm — even if they’re not painful — you should make an appointment with the doctor.

If you’re already experiencing more advanced symptoms, like difficulty straightening the fingers or grasping objects, it’s even more important for you to make an appointment.

Diagnosis

When you visit the doctor, he will examine your wrists, hands, and fingers. He will pay special attention to the palms to check for nodules and count how many are currently present.

The doctor will also most likely have you perform a series of tasks to see how far the disease has progressed. Common tests include:

  • Placing your hand flat on a table
  • Grasping and pinching items with the hands and fingers
  • Checking the amount of feeling you have in the fingers and thumbs
  • Measuring range of motion

The doctor will repeat these tests and exams regularly to see if your condition is improving or getting worse.

Nonsurgical Treatment Options

Dupuytren’s contracture doesn’t have a cure. However, there are also a number of nonsurgical treatment options that the doctor will suggest first to help you manage your condition and improve your quality of life.

Some common nonsurgical treatments that the doctor will likely start with include:

Stretching

When Dupuytren’s disease is in its earliest stages, many doctors start by recommending regular stretching exercises to improve range of motion and slow the disease’s progression.

Common exercises include flexion exercise, grip strengthening exercises, and isolation exercises.

Steroid Injections

An injection of corticosteroids, a type of anti-inflammatory medication, can help reduce the size of nodules when the disease is in its early stages. They also can help slow the progression of Dupuytren’s contracture.

But, if the thickened tissue has already formed, or the fingers are already starting to curl, steroid injections don’t seem to be particularly effective.

Enzyme Injections

Your doctor may also try injecting an enzyme mixture into the thickened tissue to try and loosen it up. After the injection, doctors sometimes try to stretch and straighten out the fingers.

Enzyme injections can be effective, but most people require two to three of them before they see improvement. They also come with some minor side effects like swelling, bruising, and bleeding.

Less Effective Treatment Options

Some doctors recommend treatments like low energy radiation, ultrasound, or Vitamin E cream to treat Dupuytren contracture. These treatments are not well researched and generally are not as effective as the options mentioned above.

It’s also important to avoid splinting your fingers. It might seem like a good idea to force the fingers to straighten. But, the force from the splint can actually backfire and cause the finger to curl inward faster.

Surgical Treatment Options

After trying nonsurgical treatment options, your doctor may suggest surgical intervention if your condition doesn’t seem to be improving.

There are three different types of surgery that doctors perform to treat Dupuytren contracture:

Needle Fasciotomy

Also known as a percutaneous needle fasciotomy or a needle aponeurotomy, this is an outpatient procedure that is performed with just a local anesthetic.

During this procedure, the doctor will insert a fine needle or very sharp blade into the connective tissue of the palm or fingers. They’ll then use the needle or blade to divide the bands and release the tension that causes the hands to curl.

Some of the benefits of this procedure include:

  • Fewer deformities of the hand
  • Faster recovery
  • Low risk of complication

A needle fasciotomy is also a good option for older patients for whom extensive surgery is not safe.

Open Fasciotomy

Another option is an open fasciotomy. This procedure is usually used for more severe cases. There is more long-term relief from an open fasciotomy compared to a needle fasciotomy, but it’s also more extensive.

An open fasciotomy is an outpatient procedure, like a needle fasciotomy, and it’s performed under local anesthetic.

During this procedure, the doctor will create an incision to access and divide the thickened connective tissue to improve your ability to straighten your fingers. They’ll then seal the wound with stitches and apply a dressing.

Since the wound is larger from this procedure, recovery time is a bit longer. You’ll also need to plan for a second appointment to have the stitches removed, and you’ll likely have a scar left over.

Fasciectomy

The most invasive surgical option for Dupuytren contracture involves removing the thickened bands of tissue altogether.

There are three different variations of a fasciectomy:

  • Regional: The doctor removes the affected connective tissue through one large incision
  • Segmental: The doctor removes small segments of tissue through one or more small cuts
  • Dermofasciectomy: The doctor removes affected connective tissue and overlying skin that may be damaged, then seals the wound with a skin graft

Unlike the other two options, a fasciectomy will most often be carried out under general anesthetic. You’ll be unconscious during the procedure and won’t feel any pain.

Because of the use of general anesthesia, there are more risks that come with a fasciectomy. But, complications are still unlikely, and the results of a fasciectomy usually last longer than the results of a needle or open fasciotomy.

Potential Complications

Complications are quite rare. But, the most frequently experienced ones include:

  • Infection
  • Potential nerve or blood vessel injury
  • Permanent stiffness in the fingers

In the months following your surgery, it’s common to experience some swelling and discomfort.

Recovering from Hand Surgery

Most people see significant improvement in the range of motion in their fingers following surgical intervention, especially with the help of physical and occupational therapy.

After surgery, you’ll probably be able to return to your daily activities, including driving, after about three weeks. Recovery can be a bit longer for people who have had skin grafts.

You should refrain from heavy manual labor and intense physical activity for about six weeks to ensure proper healing.

Chances of Recurrence

Surgery is highly beneficial, especially for people who are experiencing limitations in their daily activities as a result of Dupuytren’s contracture.

However, it’s important to note that there is a chance that the condition will return. People with a strong family history or those who had particularly severe contractures are more likely to experience a recurrence after surgery.

The chances of recurrence are also higher in needle fasciotomies than fasciectomies. Dermofasciectomy has the lowest risk of recurrent (less than one in ten).

Get Treatment for Dupuytren’s Contracture Today

Do you think you’re suffering from Dupuytren’s contracture? Are you looking for treatment and relief from your symptoms?

If so, contact us today at Arora Hand Surgery to schedule a consultation. We proudly serve people throughout the state of Michigan, and we’re eager to help you improve your symptoms and start feeling your best.

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Conditions Fingers General

What are the Symptoms of Nerve Damage in the Fingers?

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Since nerve damage in the fingers can give rise to a number of issues, you should be aware of these symptoms of finger nerve damage.

Your fingers are a marvelously designed mechanism for grasping, holding and controlling other objects. You depend on the fingers of your hands to help you function throughout the day. The intricate movements of the fingers are the result of highly fluid nerve reactions. Unfortunately, the nerves in your fingers can become damaged. When these nerves are damaged, this can seriously impair the finger’s ability to function in such an intricate and fluid way. Since finger nerve damage can give rise to a number of issues, the following are some examples of symptoms of finger nerve damage of which to be aware.

Total Loss of Motion

For a finger to be able to move, it must be able to receive nerve signals from the brain. If a finger is unable to move, this could indicate that there is potentially considerable damage to the nerve responsible for the motion of the finger in question. If a nerve is severed, such as when a finger gets chopped off and separated from the hand, this makes it impossible for such a finger to receive the nerve signal to invoke intricate movement. If the nerve pathway cannot be restored, then there is little chance that this finger will ever be able to move again due to the extensive nerve damage incurred when the finger and its nerve were severed.

Numbness and Burning Sensations

The sign that nerve damage is present in your fingers may manifest as some type of numbness or burning sensation. This is generally an indication that you are dealing with some type of neuropathy. This sensation can be a permanent sensation, or it may come and go depending on how your hand is positioned. Certain positions of the hand may impair the signal and nerve functionality more than others. If numbness and burning sensations in your fingers are an ongoing problem, you may need to see a doctor to determine if neuropathy is truly what these symptoms are implying.

Weakness

When you squeeze your fingers around an object, you need to be able to apply pressure over a consistent amount of time. If the pressure applied by one or more fingers varies over time, then the result will be a shaky grip. If this is not being done intentionally, then this could indicate nerve damage that suggests that the finger is getting too weak to maintain the ability to apply a stable force to the object you are attempting to hold.

As you can see, there are many different symptoms of nerve damage in the fingers. The good news is Dr. Arora and his team at Arora Hand Surgery can help. Contact us today to schedule a consultation at our office in West Bloomfield, Howell, Warren, or Macomb Township!

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Conditions General Hands Treatments

Seeking Treatment for Dupuytren’s Syndrome? Visit Arora Hand Surgery

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A woman makes a phone call to seek treatment for Dupuytren's syndrome for someone else.

If you are experiencing knotting in your fingers and palms, seeking treatment for Dupuytren’s syndrome at one of our hand doctor’s offices in southeast Michigan can help.

When you are the victim of Dupuytren’s syndrome, also known as Dupuytren’s contracture, your fingers begin to curl until they are tucked in against your palm. It may begin with only one finger. Eventually, all your fingers can be affected. It is a gradual process that may take place over a long time as the tissue on your palm tightens. Knots and cords can develop, making it impossible to straighten out the affected fingers. This can be debilitating. It can make it hard for you to do anything that involves flexibility with your fingers. Daily tasks can become a struggle.

Seeking Treatment for Dupuytren’s Syndrome at Arora Hand Surgery

Arora Hand Surgery will be able to offer you options to treat your condition. The first step is to come in to have your hand or hands evaluated. Your health history and any remedies that you have already tried will be taken into consideration. If your condition is mild and you have come in before it has spread to more than one finger, you may be able to find relief from conservative treatments. If that doesn’t work, you may be able to try other techniques. In time, you’ll have the flexibility that you used to have. You won’t have to feel self-conscious about the appearance of your hands anymore.

Don’t Give Up Hope

All too often, patients suffering from Dupuytren’s syndrome ignore the condition or think that there is nothing else that can be done. There are treatment options available. Each patient is different. Your treatment plan will be developed personally for you when you visit Arora Hand Surgery. Our team of caring professionals will help you to find answers when you are struggling with this sensitive issue.

Learn About Hand Treatment Options

You want to take back your hands from Dupuytren’s syndrome. You want your fingers to straighten out and have flexibility again. You don’t want to look at hands that have been changed by your condition. Make an appointment to have your consultation at Arora Hand Surgery, with offices in Howell, Warren, Macomb Township, and West Bloomfield. Contact us today to schedule a consultation!

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Conditions General Treatments Wrists

Seeking Treatment for a Ganglion Cyst in Detroit

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ganglion cyst

A ganglion cyst is a fluid-filled sac that develops on the hands or wrists, as well as occasionally on the feet. These growths affect the joints or tendons and range from the size of a pea to an inch in diameter. They may have either a firm or soft, spongy feel. You might notice one large growth or several small growths in the same area. While some ganglion cysts are symptom-free, others cause pain or weakness by pressing on the nerves. If you are bothered by this type of growth on your hand or wrist, we invite you to learn about your treatment options in the greater Detroit area.

What Causes a Ganglion Cyst?

Experts aren’t exactly sure why this type of cyst develops. They are more common in women ages 20 to 40, people who have osteoarthritis, and those who have suffered an injury to the affected tendon or joint.

How is this Type of Cyst Diagnosed?

Our doctor may first physically examine the cyst and see how it responds to pressure. In some cases, he may order certain imaging tests to confirm the diagnosis by ruling out related conditions such as arthritis.

How are Ganglion Cysts Treated?

If the cyst does not cause pain or interfere with hand movement, you don’t necessarily need treatment. But if you are bothered by the growth, several treatment options are available in the Detroit area. Our doctor may immobilize the cyst with a brace or splint, which can cause it to shrink and eventually disappear. It is sometimes sufficient to completely drain the cyst, though it may regrow over time with this approach. Other procedures may be performed if other treatment options are ineffective, if the bump is large and solid, or if a major blood vessel is affected.

Contact Us Today to Learn More

If you are bothered by an unusual growth on your hand or wrist, you should only visit a qualified hand specialist in the Detroit area. Look no further than Dr. Arora at Arora Hand Surgery in Howell, Macomb Township, Warren, or West Bloomfield. He can perform a thorough examination and determine the best course of treatment for your ganglion cyst. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and get started!

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Conditions General Treatments

Treatment Options via Dupuytren’s Injection

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Dupuytren's injection

Dupuytren’s contracture is a condition that affects the hand. It specifically causes the tissue beneath the surface of your fingers and palm to become thicker than normal. As a result, it tightens up. As the tissue and fibers within the tissue tighten, they form like cords that draw your fingers in toward your palm. You may only have one finger that is affected or it may cause all of your fingers to draw in like a claw. This is not only upsetting in how it appears. It can also be debilitating, making it hard for you to do the things that you love to do. Typically, this condition will affect your pinkie finger and your ring finger. If you have it on one hand, you are likely to have it on the other hand as well. Trying to force your fingers to straighten out is not the answer. Putting your affected fingers in a splint may only make the curling worse in the long-run. There is no cure for this condition. However, you do have options. Surgery is one possibility. If you would rather opt for a less invasive approach, consider Dupuytren’s injection treatments.

How Do Dupuytren’s Injections Work?

If you opt for injections for Dupuytren’s contracture, you may benefit from several types of injections. Steroids are often recommended when you are dealing with tenderness and pain in your palm and fingers. They act as an anti-inflammatory type of medication. They can reduce swelling and inflammation. This can reduce pain. It may keep the curling of your fingers from becoming more severe. It is important to note that steroids will not straighten your fingers if they have already curled in toward your palm. If you manage to catch your condition before the curling becomes noticeable, you may be able to hold it off. If your fingers are already curled, XIAFLEX injections are another option. XIAFLEX contains enzymes. If all else fails, surgery may be recommended to eliminate the thick bands of tissue that have caused your fingers to curl.

Learn More About Dupuytren’s Injection Treatments

If you have been struggling with Dupuytren’s contracture, you know that it isn’t easy. It can really get in the way of everyday tasks. It can also be painful. You don’t like the way your hands look when they are unnaturally curled. Dupuytren’s injection treatments at Arora Hand Surgery could mean a major improvement for you to manage your condition. Talk to our doctor to find out if you could benefit from these injections. You owe it to yourself to check out all of your options so that you can give your fingers the attention that they deserve. You may not be able to cure Dupuytren’s contracture, but you can treat it effectively. Contact us today to schedule a consultation at our office in Macomb Township, Warren, Howell, or West Bloomfield!

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Conditions General Treatments

Finding Treatment for a Ganglion Cyst in Macomb

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ganglion cyst

A ganglion cyst is a small lump that is found above a tendon or joint on your body. These cysts can occur on nearly any joint in the body, but they are primarily found on the hands and wrists. While it can be very scary to see a round lump on your body, ganglion cysts are never cancerous. They will start out as completely painless, but they may start to cause problems down the road. If your ganglion cyst is disrupting your movement or causing pain, then it is probably time to seek treatment at our office in Macomb Township.

The exact cause of a ganglion cyst is not known at the moment. They seem to develop after an injury causes the joint or tendon to shift out of its normal location. People with osteoarthritis are also far more likely to develop a ganglion cyst at some point in their life. Once the cyst develops, it will quickly start to fill up with the same thick fluid that is used by the body to lubricate the joints and tendons.

If you think you have a bothersome ganglion cyst, then you should come get it checked out by our professional in Macomb. Our doctor can perform a physical exam of the hand and wrist. He will also likely put some pressure on the cyst and take some X-rays to get an accurate diagnosis. Once it is determined that you have this kind of cyst, it is time to start your treatment in Macomb.

The first form of treatment used to eliminate your cyst may be immobilization. Moving your joints and tendons can cause your cyst to get larger over time, so you may be given a splint or brace. The hope is that the lack of movement in your joints and tendons will cause the cyst to decrease in size. If this does not happen after a short period of time, then another form of treatment will need to be used.

If immobilization is not successful, then the doctor may attempt to remove the ganglion cyst. This form of treatment involves draining the fluid inside the cyst. While this will decrease the size of the cyst, it may come back in the future.

If the problematic ganglion cyst continues to come back after this form of treatment, then it must be removed using surgery. The entire cyst will be removed from your body during the procedure. The ganglion cyst will have a stalk that is attached to a tendon or joint. This stalk is also removed This is a very simple procedure with almost no risks.

If you suspect you may have a ganglion cyst, make an appointment at Arora Hand Surgery in Macomb, West Bloomfield, Howell, or Warren to learn about your treatment options. Contact us today to schedule an initial consultation!

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Conditions General Hands

What are Dupuytren’s Contracture Syndrome Risk Factors?

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Dupuytren's Contracture Syndrome risk factors

Dupuytren’s contracture is a condition that causes deformity of the hand over time. With this syndrome, a layer of tissue grows under the skin of the palm, eventually creating a thick, knotted cord that pulls the fingers and causes them to bend. While there’s no cure for this condition, treatment can slow its progression and minimize its interference with everyday activities.

What Causes Dupuytren’s Contracture Syndrome?

While doctors aren’t exactly sure what causes this condition, certain groups of people are at a higher risk for developing Dupuytren’s contracture. It most commonly occurs in men older than age 50; while women can also develop this syndrome, their symptoms are typically less severe than those experienced by men. It’s also more common among individuals of European descent, as well as among those who have family members with this condition. Diabetes, smoking, and alcohol intake are also risk factors for this syndrome.

What are the Characteristic Symptoms of Dupuytren’s Contracture?

People with this condition first notice that the skin of their palm seems thicker. Over time, this evolves into knobs of tissue and puckering and dimpling of the skin. The condition is not usually painful, although the affected area may be more sensitive to touch. Over time, the fingers (most often the pinky and ring fingers) are pulled toward the palm.

How is Dupuytren’s Contracture Treated?

For many people with this condition, progression is so slow that treatment is not required at first. If the changes to your fingers make it challenging to perform your daily tasks, however, certain treatments can help alleviate its effects by breaking up the hardened tissue under the palm. Of course, we can go over the details of these treatments with you during a consultation at our office.

Learn More Information at Our Office

If you’re experiencing the symptoms of Dupuytren’s contracture syndrome, schedule an evaluation at Arora Hand Surgery. We’ll be happy to recommend treatment options that can restore normal movement to your hand.

For your convenience, Arora Hand Surgery has locations in West Bloomfield, Warren, Macomb, and Howell. Contact us today to schedule a consultation to learn more information about your treatment options!

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Dr. Aroras office from my first call to schedule my appointment was friendly. Walking in the first day, I felt like I was in a nice atmosphere. Dr. Arora was EXCELLENT in taking great care of my hand injury. He was gentle and very understanding to the concerns I had about my hand. His expertise was admirable and I would recommend anyone with an injury to their hand to his office to be under his care. Because of him, I have healed faster than expected and will make an 100% recovery! Thank you Dr.

Jackie S.

I first thought I was going to have to have painful injections or surgery, but Dr. Arora suggested physical therapy may do the trick. I was doubtful, but I agreed to do it. Now, my pain is gone, and with the help of an ergonomic keyboard at work to keep my hands in the correct position, I am virtually pain free. The therapy strengthened my wrists and shoulders, and built more flexibility into my wrists.

Jerry T.

My experience with this doctor was positive from the outset. Dr. Arora was kind and spent a great deal of time with me. Staff was friendly. The office was nice and bright.

Ariel G.

Very friendly and helpful Great staff!!! Doctor Arora was very professional and did great work. I was very happy with everything!

L B.