Introduction
Hand function is essential for everyday life, from gripping steering wheels to typing on a keyboard. When a condition like Dupuytren’s contracture develops, it can slowly restrict your ability to fully straighten your fingers and limit hand use. For patients in Braselton, GA, finding a fellowship-trained, board-certified hand surgeon who offers advanced treatment options is key. At Specialty Orthopaedics, Dr. Thomas Neustein provides expert diagnosis and personalized care for patients living with Dupuytren’s disease and other hand and wrist conditions.
What Is Dupuytren’s Contracture?
Dupuytren’s contracture is a progressive condition that affects the tissue beneath the skin of the palm. This tissue, known as the palmar fascia, thickens and tightens over time. As Dupuytren’s contracture progresses, cords form and pull one or more fingers into a bent position, making it difficult to place the hand flat on a table or grasp large objects. The ring finger and little finger are most commonly affected, though any digit may be involved.
Causes and Risk Factors
The exact cause of Dupuytren’s disease is not fully understood, but several risk factors play a role. Patients often have a genetic predisposition, meaning the condition may run in families. Other contributors include age, male gender, rheumatoid arthritis, diabetes, and overuse injuries. While not caused by traumatic injuries or broken bones, these factors may accelerate the onset or severity. Smoking and alcohol use may also increase risk. Dr. Neustein explained to many patients that early detection allows for more effective management.
Symptoms of Dupuytren’s Disease
The earliest symptoms are often small, painless lumps or nodules in the palm. Over time, these nodules develop into cords of tight tissue that extend into the affected fingers. The hallmark sign is the inability to fully straighten the fingers, leaving them curled toward the palm. In severe cases, patients may lose function in their hand, making it difficult to shake hands, wear gloves, or perform tasks at work. While there is usually no significant pain, the contracture can greatly interfere with daily life.
Diagnosis in Braselton
Diagnosis typically begins with a thorough medical history and physical exam. Dr. Neustein, a trusted hand specialist in Braselton, assesses the affected area by asking patients to press their palm flat on a surface. He examines the cords, nodules, skin, and degree of contracture. In some cases, imaging may be used to rule out arthritis, bones fractures, or other orthopedic conditions. The goal is to establish a clear treatment plan that restores function.
Non-Surgical Treatment Options
In early stages, non-surgical treatment options may help slow progression. Steroid injections into nodules can reduce inflammation and soften tissue. Physical therapy with stretching, splinting, and exercises may provide relief in select cases. Some patients try wrist splinting or night braces, though these measures cannot reverse existing contractures. These options are most helpful before the dupuytren’s contracture progresses into severe cases requiring a surgical procedure.
Minimally Invasive Treatments
For patients with mild to moderate contracture, enzyme injections such as collagenase can weaken the cord, allowing the surgeon to gently manipulate the fingers into a straighter position. Another option is needle aponeurotomy, where the cord is released using a needle through the skin. Both are outpatient procedures offered in North Georgia, including near Braselton, and can provide relief with a quicker recovery process than open surgery.
Surgical Treatment for Severe Cases
When the contracture is advanced, open surgery may be required. During this surgical procedure, Dr. Neustein carefully removes or releases the thickened tissue to straighten the affected fingers. This type of hand surgery is performed at a nearby surgery center serving Braselton patients, including the Gainesville ASC. The procedure is designed to restore function, relieve deformity, and allow patients to return to normal activity. In some cases, skin grafts may be used if the skin is shortened by disease.
Recovery Process After Surgery
The recovery process after Dupuytren’s surgery involves wound healing, physical therapy, and regular follow-up visits. Patients often wear a splint at night to keep the fingers straight. Therapy helps maintain mobility, reduce swelling, and prevent recurrence. Most patients gradually regain function within weeks to months. The entire surgical staff and therapy team at Specialty Orthopaedics guide patients through this process with compassionate, personalized care.
Everyday Life After Treatment
Following treatment, many patients can return to work, hobbies, and sports. Whether typing, playing golf, or handling tools, improved hand extension allows for greater independence. Some patients with sports injuries, tennis elbow, or carpal tunnel syndrome also find relief by addressing multiple conditions at once. Dr. Neustein explained that consistent therapy and home exercises are key to long-term success.
Related Hand and Upper Extremity Conditions
Dupuytren’s contracture is one of many hand and wrist conditions treated by Dr. Neustein. His expertise in upper extremity surgery includes management of carpal tunnel syndrome, trigger finger, cubital tunnel syndrome, thumb CMC joint arthritis, and tendon repair for soft tissue injuries. He also treats traumatic injuries, broken hand cases, and overuse injuries in athletes. Whether you are dealing with a wrist injury, elbow pain, or joint replacement consideration, his experience in orthopaedic surgery ensures comprehensive care.
Why Choose Dr. Neustein in Braselton
Thomas Neustein, MD, is a fellowship-trained, board-certified hand surgeon specializing in hand and upper extremity care. He provides medical care for everything from broken bones and arthritis to complex surgery. Patients often say they would “highly recommend Dr. Neustein” thanks to his skill, attention to detail, and commitment to restoring function. His entire staff is dedicated to compassionate, stress-free treatment, making his office a trusted destination for orthopedic conditions in North Georgia.
Personalized Treatment Plans
Every patient receives a tailored treatment plan based on their condition, activity level, and goals. Whether non-surgical therapy, injections, or complex surgery, Dr. Neustein emphasizes clear communication, outlining all risks, benefits, and alternatives. He ensures that patients understand the steps of care so they can make informed decisions and achieve the best outcomes.
Call to Action
If you are experiencing difficulty straightening your fingers or have noticed nodules in your palm, don’t wait for your dupuytren’s contracture to worsen. Early diagnosis and expert treatment can prevent long-term disability. Schedule an appointment with Dr. Thomas Neustein, your trusted Dupuytren’s contracture treatment specialist in Braselton, GA, and take the first step toward restoring full hand function.
