Look no further than Country Hills Physiotherapy for specialized treatment of Dupuytren’s contracture in Calgary. Our expert team offers personalized treatment plans using advanced physiotherapy techniques to improve hand function, alleviate discomfort, and slow the progression of this condition.
Understanding Dupuytren’s Contracture
Dupuytren’s contracture is a hand condition where the fingers, particularly the ring and little fingers, gradually bend towards the palm, limiting their movement. This condition results from the thickening and tightening of the fascia, a layer of fibrous tissue in the palm.
Causes and Risk Factors
The exact cause of Dupuytren’s contracture remains unknown but is believed to be a mix of genetic and environmental factors. It progresses slowly and can range from mild discomfort to severe hand deformity, affecting daily activities.
While the precise cause is uncertain, several factors can elevate the risk of developing this condition:
- Genetics: Having a family history of Dupuytren’s contracture significantly raises the risk.
- Age: This condition is more prevalent in individuals over 50.
- Sex: Men are at higher risk and often experience more severe forms.
- Ancestry: Those of Northern European or Scandinavian descent face a higher risk.
- Lifestyle Factors: Smoking and alcohol consumption have been linked to an increased risk of Dupuytren’s contracture.
- Medical Conditions: Individuals with diabetes and certain types of epilepsy may be at a heightened risk.
Symptoms to Be Aware Of
The primary symptom of Dupuytren’s contracture is the gradual formation of a fibrous cord beneath the skin of the palm, leading to restricted finger movement. Early indications include:
- Nodules: Thickened nodules may develop in the palm, which can be tender to touch.
- Pitting: The skin on the palm may show puckering or dimpling.
- Finger Contracture: Over time, fingers may start to bend towards the palm, making straightening them fully challenging.
Assessment typically relies on a physical examination. The “tabletop test,” where the hand cannot lie flat on a surface, is commonly used to assess the severity of the contracture.
Personalized Physiotherapy for Dupuytren’s Contracture
At Country Hills Physiotherapy, we prioritize a holistic physiotherapy approach to treat Dupuytren’s contracture in Calgary, focusing on enhancing hand function and managing symptoms.
- Initial Comprehensive Assessment: We kick off our treatment with a detailed evaluation to grasp the extent of your condition and how it affects your hand function and daily activities. This evaluation shapes your personalized treatment plan.
- Customized Hand Therapy: Our physiotherapy programs may involve exercises to boost hand strength and flexibility, and maintain finger mobility. These exercises are gentle, aiming to slow the progression of contracture without worsening the condition.
- Manual Therapy Techniques: We utilize manual therapy to alleviate discomfort and enhance hand movement. Techniques like soft tissue massage and gentle stretching can help reduce fascia tightness in the palm.
- Ergonomic and Lifestyle Modification Advice: We provide guidance on adapting daily activities to effectively manage your condition and prevent its advancement. This includes ergonomic adjustments at work and home to lessen strain on your hands.
Why Opt for Country Hills Physiotherapy for Dupuytren’s Contracture Treatment
By selecting Country Hills Physiotherapy for your Dupuytren’s contracture treatment in Calgary, you gain:
- Comprehensive Physiotherapy Care: Our team is experienced in treating hand conditions, employing tailored techniques to enhance your quality of life.
- Personalized Treatment Plans: Your treatment plan is tailored to your specific requirements, concentrating on functional enhancements and symptom control.
- Comprehensive Support: In addition to physiotherapy, we offer holistic care encompassing lifestyle adjustments and ergonomic advice to boost your overall well-being.
Comprehensive Treatment Services
Country Hills Physiotherapy is dedicated to providing a wide array of services, extending beyond physiotherapy, to address diverse musculoskeletal conditions and injuries, ensuring you receive personalized care that meets your needs.
- Physiotherapy Clinic
- Massage Therapy
- Dry Needling
- Cupping Therapy
- Pelvic Floor Physio
- Hockey Injury Physiotherapy
- Infant Head Shape Physio
- Vestibular Physiotherapy
Take Charge of Your Hand Health
If Dupuytren’s contracture is impacting your daily life, contact Country Hills Physiotherapy in Calgary. Let us assist you in restoring hand functionality and alleviating discomfort through our targeted therapies. Reach out today to embark on your personalized treatment journey.
Wrist and Hand Conditions We Address
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Dupuytren’s Contracture Treatment Calgary FAQs
Can Dupuytren’s Contracture Be Prevented?
Currently, there is no known method to prevent Dupuytren’s contracture, especially since genetic factors play a significant role in its development. However, adopting certain lifestyle changes may help reduce the risk or slow the progression of the condition. This includes avoiding smoking and limiting alcohol consumption, as both have been linked to an increased risk of Dupuytren’s contracture. Additionally, managing underlying health conditions like diabetes through proper care and maintaining overall hand health through regular exercise and avoiding repetitive strain can be beneficial.
How Long Does Physiotherapy Treatment for Dupuytren’s Contracture Take?
The duration of physiotherapy treatment for Dupuytren’s contracture depends on the individual’s condition severity, their goals, and how well they respond to therapy. Some clients may notice improvements in comfort and hand function within a few weeks, while others may require several months of consistent physiotherapy to achieve optimal results. It’s important to note that physiotherapy for Dupuytren’s contracture is often a long-term management strategy rather than a quick fix. Regular follow-ups and adherence to prescribed hand exercises are crucial for managing symptoms and improving hand mobility.
What Can I Do at Home to Support My Physiotherapy Treatment?
Supporting your physiotherapy treatment at home is crucial for the success of your Dupuytren’s contracture management plan. Adhering to your physiotherapist’s recommendations for daily exercises is essential. These exercises are designed to maintain or improve finger mobility and strength. Additionally, practicing good hand care, avoiding activities that put unnecessary strain on your fingers, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle can contribute to overall treatment effectiveness. Keeping regular appointments with your physiotherapist for progress assessments and treatment adjustments is equally important.
Can Dupuytren’s Contracture Recur After Treatment?
Yes, Dupuytren’s contracture can recur after treatment. The condition is chronic and progressive, and while treatments such as physiotherapy can improve symptoms and hand function, they do not cure Dupuytren’s contracture. The risk of recurrence varies based on several factors, including the treatment method, the severity of the condition before treatment, and genetic predisposition. Ongoing physiotherapy and hand exercises as part of a long-term management strategy can help slow the progression of the disease and manage symptoms, even if they cannot prevent recurrence entirely.
Country Hills Physiotherapy
8730 Country Hills Blvd NW #230, Calgary, AB T3G 0E2, Canada
(587) 747-0755
Hours:
Monday to Friday: 7 AM – 8 PM
Saturday: Closed
Sunday: Closed