Conditions & RSI
Dupuytren's contracture
The Causes
The exact cause of Dupuytren's Contracture is usually difficult to identify. It may be seen with other work-related conditions such as bursitis or tendinitis, but evidence for or against it being an occupational disease is sparse. There is a slight tendency for it to run in families and it is known that is occurs more frequently in patients with diabetes, epilepsy and alcoholism. It is also more common in men than in women.
The Doctor's Examination
In the UK, GPs receive little training in the diagnosis and treatment of musculoskeletal disorders. Your doctor may refer you to a specialist who has taken an interest in RSI-type conditions, usually a rheumatologist or neurologist. Dupuytren's Contracture is usually diagnosed during the physical examination of the affected hand.
Treatment
The treatment of Dupuytren's Contracture depends on the severity and the underlying condition of the affected individual. Some of the methods which have been investigated are physical therapy, vitamin E, ultrasound, steroid injections and the use of splints. For an accurately diagnosed case of Dupuytren's Contracture however, it is generally accepted that the only successful treatment is surgery.
Each case has to be considered individually and there is no automatic link between Dupuytren's Contracture and work. If occupational factors are part of the problem then changes to consider include pacing, rest breaks, reducing repetition and force, posture, and the use of ergonomically designed tools and equipment to make work tasks easier.
The Indiana Hand Centre (External link)
Conditions & RSI
Conditions
Tendon Related Disorders
Tendinitis
Tenosynovtis
Epicondylitis
De Quervain's Disease
Dupuytren's Contracture
Trigger Finger
Gangolian Cyst
Rotator Cuff Syndrome
Nerve Related Disorders
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Cubital Tunnel Syndrome
Guyon Canal Syndrome
Pronator Teres Syndrome
Radial Tunnel Syndrome
Thoracic Outlet Syndrome
Cervical Syndrome
Muscle Related Disorders
Tension Neck Syndrome
Muscle Sprain & Strain
Myalgia & Myositis
Writers Cramp
Circulatory Disorders
Hypothenar Hammer Syndrome
Reynauds Phenomenon or Disease
Vibration White Finger
Bursa Related Disorders
Bursitis
Non Specific Pain
Double Crush Syndrome
Fact Sheets
What is RSI - Treatment & Managing RSI - Advice & Research - RSI Hazards - Minimising Risks