0330 088 7800
Above: Hand and wrist mobilisations performed by a specialist PhysiotherapistThere are three surgical methods to treat Dupuytren’s Contracture:
- Open Fasciotomy – the overlying skin is cut open and the contracture is cut.
- Needle Fasciotomy – the contracture is cut using a needle inserted into the skin.
- Open Fasciectomy – the overlying skin is cut open and the contracture removed.
Symptoms after Dupuytren’s ContractureSurgery
Following dupuytren’s contracture surgery, your hand will be stitched and bandaged and your finger placed in a splint in order to support your hand and keep your fingers straight. Symptoms you may experience following surgery include:
- Pain
- Swelling
- Weakness
- Sensory impairments
Above: Hand mobilisation exercises performed by PhysiotherapistPhysiotherapy afterDupuytren’s ContractureSurgery
Physio.co.uk will assess your hand during your first session and then design a personal rehabilitation programme specific to the symptoms and problems that you present with. Treatment will focus on restoration of functional hand and finger movements, strengthening and prevention of repeated contractures.Treatment can begin immediately following surgery and full recovery can be seen within six weeks.
Days 0-7
Initial physiotherapy with Physio.co.uk will resolve around careful wound monitoring and pain management. Your physiotherapist will assess your hand and then begin a course of therapy to reduce stiffness and increase range of movement in your hand and fingers. Your treatment will include:
- Cryotherapy (Ice)
- Pain reduction
- Wrist range of movements exercises
- Gentle stretches
- Passive finger range of movement exercises
- Gentle active finger range of movement exercises
- Wound monitoring
- Splint fitting
Week 1 -3
After one week of physiotherapy your programme with Physio.co.uk will focus on a continuation and progression of exercises to increase range of movement, release tight structures and develop strength in your fingers. Treatment will include:
- Heat therapy
- Increased finger range of movement exercises
- Finger strengthening exercises
- Soft tissue massage
- Stretching
- Grip strengthening
Weeks 4-6
Following week three, Physio.co.uk will intensify your treatment in order for you to regain fully functional hand movement:
- Vigorous stretching
- Soft tissue massage
- Strengthening of fingers
- Active range of movement exercises
- Increased grip strengthening
- Splint – may be worn for up to 6 months to prevent re-contractures
Summary
Dupuytren’s Contracture is a common disorder that causes the palmar fascia to become tight resulting in one or more fingers being fixed into a flexed position. It affects more men than women and usually affects people aged 40 or over. This condition can result in disabling hand function and in order to prevent this surgery is required to release this tightness. Following surgery, a comprehensive physiotherapy programme through Physio.co.uk is crucial to ensure success of the operation, guarantee the return of full function and prevent any future problems occurring. Physio.co.uk will help to reduce post surgical complications and restore full hand and finger function helping you achieve a rapid and full return to your daily activities and hobbies. Call Physio.co.uk now on 0330 088 7800 for more information or to book an appointment please contact us.
