Dupuytren’s Contracture (Early Stage) Treatment in Sharjah

Have you noticed a small, hard lump in the palm of your hand that feels like a callus or knot? This could be an early sign of Dupuytren’s contracture, a condition that causes the tissue under the skin of your palm to thicken and tighten. In its later stages, it can pull your fingers into a bent position, making it difficult to fully straighten them.

 

At Al Resalah Specialty Clinic in Sharjah, we specialize in the early-stage management of Dupuytren’s contracture. By combining the expertise of our orthopedic specialists with advanced physiotherapy, we can help you slow the progression of the condition, manage your symptoms, and maintain the function of your hand and fingers.

Understanding Dupuytren’s Contracture

Dupuytren’s contracture is a progressive condition that affects the fibrous tissue (fascia) beneath the skin in your palm. It’s often painless in the early stages and may present as:

  • A small, firm nodule or pit in the palm, usually near the base of the ring or little finger.

  • A thickened cord of tissue that extends from the palm into the finger.

  • A feeling of tightness or a pulling sensation in the palm.

     

Early intervention is key to managing Dupuytren’s contracture. While there is no cure, a proactive approach can significantly slow its progression and delay the need for more invasive treatments.

 

Our Integrated Treatment Approach for Early-Stage Dupuytren’s

Our goal is to accurately diagnose your condition and provide a personalized treatment plan focused on preventing the contracture from worsening and preserving your hand’s function.

Step 1: Expert Orthopedic Consultation and Diagnosis

Your treatment journey begins with a thorough evaluation by our experienced orthopedic specialists. They will:

  • Conduct a Physical Examination: Our doctors will carefully examine your hand and fingers, assessing the location and size of any nodules or cords. They will measure your ability to straighten your fingers (the “tabletop test”).

  • Discuss Your Symptoms: They will ask about any changes in your hand function, pain, or other symptoms.

  • Assess the Severity: Based on the examination, our specialists will determine the stage of your Dupuytren’s contracture and recommend the most appropriate course of action.

Step 2: Non-Surgical Management and Observation

For early-stage Dupuytren’s, our primary focus is on conservative management to slow the progression of the disease. This may include:

  • Observation: If the condition is not progressing rapidly and is not affecting hand function, our doctors may recommend a “wait-and-see” approach, monitoring the nodules and cords over time.

  • Splinting and Bracing: We may recommend a custom-made splint to gently stretch and prevent the affected finger from bending further. This is often used at night to maintain a straight position.

  • Medication: While there is no specific medication to cure Dupuytren’s, anti-inflammatory drugs may be recommended to manage any associated discomfort.

Step 3: Advanced Physiotherapy and Hand Therapy

Physiotherapy is a cornerstone of our early-stage treatment plan. Our skilled physiotherapists and certified hand therapists will work with you to maintain flexibility and function. Our advanced physiotherapy services include:

  • Stretching and Mobilization Exercises: A program of specific exercises to gently stretch the affected fingers and palm to improve flexibility and prevent contracture.

  • Manual Therapy: Our therapists may use hands-on techniques to mobilize the joints and soft tissues of your hand and fingers.

  • Ergonomic and Activity Modification Advice: We will provide guidance on how to perform daily activities to minimize stress on your hands and protect them from injury.

  • Heat Therapy: Using heat packs or paraffin wax baths to soften the tissue in the palm, which can make stretching exercises more effective.

     

Step 4: Minimally Invasive Procedures (If Indicated)

If the contracture begins to progress and is impacting your ability to use your hand, our specialists may discuss minimally invasive treatment options, such as:

  • Needle Aponeurotomy: A procedure where a needle is inserted through the skin to break up the thickened cord of tissue, allowing the finger to straighten. This is a quick procedure with a short recovery time.

  • Enzyme Injection: An injection of an enzyme that dissolves the collagen in the cord, allowing the doctor to manipulate and straighten the finger.

     

Following these procedures, a structured physiotherapy program is vital to maintain the results and prevent the contracture from returning. Our team will be with you every step of the way to ensure a full recovery.

Why Choose Al Resalah Specialty Clinic?

  • Integrated Care: We offer a seamless, collaborative approach between our orthopedic doctors and physiotherapists to ensure a cohesive and effective treatment plan.

  • Experienced Specialists: Our team has extensive experience in diagnosing and treating all stages of Dupuytren’s contracture.

  • Patient-Centered Approach: We believe in a personalized approach, tailoring every treatment plan to your specific needs and goals.

  • State-of-the-Art Facilities: Our clinic is equipped with the latest diagnostic and therapeutic tools to provide you with the highest standard of care.

Don’t let Dupuytren’s contracture limit your hand function. Contact Al Resalah Specialty Clinic in Sharjah today to schedule your consultation and take the first step toward managing this condition and preserving your hand’s health.