Ottawa Health: Performance and Rehabilitation is the premier choice for specialized Dupuytren’s contracture treatment in Ottawa. Our expert team blends empathetic care with cutting-edge physiotherapy methods to create personalized treatment strategies. Our goal is to assist you in improving hand functionality, easing discomfort, and slowing the progression of Dupuytren’s contracture.

Understanding Dupuytren’s Contracture

Dupuytren’s contracture is a hand condition that gradually causes the fingers (typically the ring and pinky fingers) to curve 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 precise cause of Dupuytren’s contracture remains unknown, but it is believed to result from a mix of genetic and environmental influences. The condition advances slowly and ranges in severity from mild discomfort to significant hand deformity, affecting daily tasks.

While the exact cause is uncertain, several factors are recognized to elevate the risk of developing this condition:

Genetics: A family history of Dupuytren’s contracture substantially heightens the risk.
Age: The condition is more prevalent in individuals over 50.
Sex: Men are more prone to developing the condition and often experience more severe forms.
Ancestry: Individuals 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: People with diabetes and certain types of epilepsy may have an elevated risk.

Symptoms to Look Out For

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 indicators include:

Nodules: Thickened nodules may develop in the palm, which can be tender to the touch.
Pitting: Skin on the palm may appear puckered or dimpled.
Finger Contracture: Over time, fingers may start to bend towards the palm, making full extension challenging.

Evaluation typically relies on a physical examination. The “tabletop test,” where the hand cannot be placed flat on a surface, is commonly used to assess the severity of the contracture.

Personalized Physiotherapy for Dupuytren’s Contracture

At Ottawa Health: Performance and Rehabilitation, we stress a holistic physiotherapy approach for treating Dupuytren’s contracture in Ottawa, concentrating on improving hand functionality and symptom management.

Initial Comprehensive Assessment: Our treatment commences with a thorough assessment to gauge the extent of your condition and its impact on hand function and daily activities. This evaluation shapes the development of your tailored treatment plan.
Customized Hand Therapy: Our physiotherapy regimens might encompass exercises to boost hand strength and flexibility, and to preserve finger range of motion. These exercises are gentle, aiming to slow the progression of contracture without worsening the condition.
Manual Therapy Techniques: We employ manual therapy to alleviate discomfort and enhance hand movement. Methods like soft tissue massage and gentle stretching can help alleviate the tightness of the fascia in the palm.
Ergonomic and Lifestyle Modification Advice: We provide guidance on adapting daily routines 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 Ottawa Health: Performance and Rehabilitation for Dupuytren’s Contracture Treatment

By selecting Ottawa Health: Performance and Rehabilitation for your Dupuytren’s contracture treatment in Ottawa, you gain:

Comprehensive Physiotherapy Care: Our team is proficient in treating hand conditions, employing tailored methods to enhance your quality of life.
Personalized Treatment Plans: Your treatment plan is tailored to your specific requirements, focusing on functional enhancements and symptom alleviation.
Holistic Support: Beyond physiotherapy, we offer comprehensive care encompassing lifestyle modifications and ergonomic advice to boost your overall well-being.

Comprehensive Treatment Services

Ottawa Health: Performance and Rehabilitation is dedicated to providing a broad array of services, extending beyond physiotherapy, to address various musculoskeletal conditions and injuries, ensuring you receive holistic care tailored to your needs.

Take Charge of Your Hand Health

If Dupuytren’s contracture is impacting your daily life, get in touch with Ottawa Health: Performance and Rehabilitation in Ottawa. Allow us to assist you in restoring hand functionality and alleviating discomfort through our targeted treatments. Contact us today to embark on your personalized treatment journey.

Wrist and Hand Conditions We Address

Skier’s Thumb Treatment (Gamekeeper’s Thumb)
Mallet Finger Treatment
Scaphoid Wrist Fractures Treatment
Wrist Osteoarthritis Treatment
Dupuytren’s Contracture Treatment

Wrist Tendinitis Treatment
Trigger Finger Treatment (Stenosing Tenosynovitis)
Ganglion Cysts Treatment
De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis Treatment
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Treatment

Dupuytren’s Contracture Treatment Ottawa 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.

Ottawa Health: Performance and Rehabilitation
1535 Bank St, Ottawa, ON K1H 7Z1, Canada
(613) 728-9414

Hours:

Monday to Thursday: 8 AM – 7:30 PM
Friday: 8 AM – 8 PM
Saturday: 10 AM – 2 PM
Sunday: Closed