Dupuytren's Disease
Other Treatment
Rehabilitation (treatment by a physical therapist or occupational therapist) is a necessary step in recovery after surgery on the hand. The goals of rehabilitation are to prevent the buildup of fluid (edema), to manage scarring, and to get back and keep your range of motion. It may include wrapping, splinting, massage, stretching, and exercise. Your therapist may also recommend using bigger grips or handles on equipment so you don't have to bend your fingers as far.
Traction to lengthen and flatten the tissues of the hand is being studied.2
A promising nonsurgical form of treatment called enzymatic percutaneous fasciotomy is still under study. In this procedure, a substance (collagenase diluted in calcium chloride) is injected directly into the Dupuytren's cord in order to improve flexibility, mobility, and strength. This study is entering its final phase, and results will be available in the future.3
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| Author: | Shannon Erstad, MBA/MPH | Last Updated: March 31, 2008 |
| Medical Review: | William M. Green, MD - Emergency Medicine David Pichora, MD, FRCSC - Orthopedic Surgery | |
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