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Finger Contracture, Bent Finger

If you suffer from finger contracture please Schedule an appointment with one of our orthopedic specialists as soon as possible.

What Is Finger Contracture, Bent Finger?

Finger contracture, also known as a bent finger, refers to the abnormal flexion or curvature of one or more fingers. It occurs when the muscles, tendons, or ligaments in the finger become tight, shortened, or restricted, preventing the finger from straightening fully.

Finger contractures can be caused by various factors, including:

  1. Dupuytren’s contracture: This condition involves the thickening and tightening of the tissue beneath the skin of the palm, leading to the gradual bending of one or more fingers, typically the ring or little finger.
  2. Rheumatoid arthritis: Inflammation and joint damage associated with rheumatoid arthritis can lead to finger joint deformities and contractures.
  3. Traumatic injury: Finger contractures can develop following injuries such as fractures, dislocations, or tendon injuries that result in scarring, adhesions, or tissue damage.
  4. Neurological conditions: Certain neurological conditions like stroke, cerebral palsy, or peripheral nerve damage can cause muscle weakness or imbalances, leading to finger contractures.

Finger Contracture Procedure

A finger contracture procedure involves actively addressing and correcting the bending of a finger joint that restricts movement. During the procedure, surgeons release the tightened tissues or ligaments causing the contracture. Initially, the surgeon administers anesthesia to ensure patient comfort. They then make precise incisions to access the affected tendons, ligaments, or fascia.

Depending on the contracture’s severity, the surgeon may remove scar tissue, release tight ligaments, or perform tendon repairs. In some cases, they may also lengthen or reposition tendons to improve finger mobility. Following the surgical corrections, the surgeon carefully closes the incisions with sutures.

Post-operative care includes splinting the finger to maintain the new position, and patients often begin physical therapy shortly after surgery to regain strength and flexibility. This procedure aims to restore finger function, enhance hand usability, and improve the patient’s overall quality of life.

Finger Contracture Procedure Benefits

Undergoing a finger contracture procedure offers several key benefits. Firstly, it significantly improves finger mobility by releasing the tightened tissues causing the contracture. This enhanced flexibility allows individuals to perform daily tasks more easily and efficiently. Additionally, the procedure alleviates pain associated with the contracture, providing relief and enhancing overall hand comfort.

Another major benefit is the restoration of hand functionality. By correcting the finger’s position, the procedure enables better grip and dexterity, essential for activities that require fine motor skills. This improvement can lead to greater independence and productivity in both personal and professional settings.

The procedure also prevents further complications that can arise from untreated contractures, such as joint stiffness and muscle atrophy. Early intervention and correction through surgery can preserve hand health and prevent long-term disability. Overall, the finger contracture procedure greatly enhances quality of life by restoring hand function and reducing discomfort.

Treatments For Finger Contracture

The severity of finger contractures can vary, ranging from mild stiffness to severe deformity that significantly impairs hand function. Treatment options for finger contractures depend on the underlying cause, the degree of contracture, and the individual’s functional needs. They may include:

  1. Hand therapy and exercises: Stretching and strengthening exercises under the guidance of a hand therapist can help improve finger flexibility and prevent further contracture progression.
  2. Splinting: Custom-made splints or orthoses can be used to maintain finger alignment, stretch tight structures, and prevent further contracture development.
  3. Medications: In some cases, medications such as corticosteroids or collagenase injections may be used to reduce inflammation, soften scar tissue, or dissolve fibrous cords associated with certain types of contractures.
  4. Surgical intervention: When conservative measures are ineffective or the contracture is severe, surgical procedures may be considered. Surgical options can include releasing or lengthening tight structures, removing scar tissue, or correcting joint deformities.

It is important to seek medical evaluation and consultation with a hand specialist or orthopedic surgeon for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan tailored to the specific needs of the individual. Early intervention and appropriate management of finger contractures can help improve hand function, minimize discomfort, and enhance overall quality of life.

 

If you would like to speak to an Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Specialist, give us a call at 817-697-4038, or contact us over the web. Tele-medicine appointments are also available.