Dupuytren’s Disease

Dupuytren's Disease is an abnormal thickening in the palm and fingers that may limit movement. The cause of Dupuytren's is not known but it more commonly affects Caucasians with ancestors from Northern Europe. It occurs more frequently in men, runs in families, and usually begins after age 40. Dupuytren's Disease begins as a small lump or pit in the palm often near the crease at the base of the small or ring fingers. As time goes on, a cord may develop between the palm and fingers drawing the fingers into the palm and affecting activities.

There is no permanent cure for Dupuytren's. Surgery can relieve the bending of the fingers into the palm to improve function and is often done on an outpatient basis without the need for a general anesthetic. After surgery, the cord may return to the same place.

Common Hand Injuries

Fractures of the fingers occur when the finger or hands hit a solid object. Fractures are most common at the base of the little finger (boxer's fracture). Nerve injuries occur as a result of trauma, compression or over-stretching. Nerves send impulses to the brain about sensation and also play an important role in finger movement. When nerves are injured, one can lose ability to move fingers, lose sensation and develop a contracture. Any nerve injury of the hand can be disabling and results in loss of hand function. Thus it is vital to seek medical help as soon as possible after any hand injury.

Sprains result from forcing a joint to perform against its normal range of motion. Finger sprains occur when the ligaments which are attached to the bone are overstretched and this results in pain, swelling, and difficulty for moving the finger. Common examples of a sprain are jammed or twisted fingers. These injuries are common among ball players but can also occur in laborers and handy men. When finger sprains are not treated on time, prolonged disability can result.