A lump in the palm of the hand can be an extremely uncomfortable condition for any person to deal with. These lumps can be painful to the touch, interfere with grasping or holding activities, and even decrease range of motion in certain fingers. While there are many potential causes for a lump in the palm of the hand, this condition often develops as a result of Dupuytren’s contracture.
Dupuytren’s contracture is a medical condition that normally develops in the hand over a long stretch of time. In the initial stages, this condition causes knots to form in the tissue in the palm of the hand. Over time the knots can evolve into tough cords that can force certain fingers to bend over.
At this point, the precise cause of Dupuytren’s contracture remains unknown. This condition does not affect the tendons or develop as a result of trauma or overuse. Even though there is not a clear-cut answer for what causes this condition, certain individuals have a heightened risk of developing Dupuytren’s contracture, including:
In the early stages of Dupuytren’s contracture, the main symptom is ordinarily a lump in the palm of the hand. Though in certain cases, multiple lumps can develop. Outside of slight tenderness or soreness, these lumps do not generally pose too much of an issue.
In more developed cases of Dupuytren’s contracture, there can be long term physical impairment to the ring finger and little finger. Due to the thick cords that develop underneath the skin’s surface, these outermost fingers are pulled inward toward the palm of the hand. In this bent position, it can be difficult to straighten the affected fingers or perform other basic tasks.
Treatment of Dupuytren’s contracture can be a tricky process. As a result, it is crucial for a licensed professional to diagnose and treat this condition. Efforts at self-treatment — especially forcing affected fingers to straighten with a splint or brace — can make the symptoms worse, not better.
After diagnosing Dupuytren’s contracture, a licensed physician will traditionally attempt to break or remove the thick cords in the palm of the hand. This can happen without surgical intervention, through the use of needles or enzyme injections. But in certain cases, the patient may need to undergo surgery to resolve Dupuytren’s contracture.
Not every lump in the palm of hand is Dupuytren's Contracture. It could be a ganglion cyst, tumor, or a sign of other conditions. Read more here for more information.
If you need medical help for a lump in the palm of your hand, it can be incredibly beneficial to contact a qualified hand surgeon. At Midwest Hand Surgery, our doctors have proven credentials with various hand, wrist, and elbow conditions, including lumps in the hand. With fellowship training that surpasses standard board credentials, the surgeons at Midwest Hand Surgery provide hands-on treatment without relying on physician assistants.
Our hand doctors can also help with other conditions, such as carpal tunnel syndrome, Dupuytren Contracture, and trigger finger.
Our facilities at Midwest Hand Surgery are designehttp://dupuyd to meet the diverse needs of our patients, with on-site surgical capabilities, options for same-day treatment, and even occupational therapy. If you need medical treatment for a lump in the palm of your hand, contact us today to jumpstart the treatment process.
Dupuytren's contracture and Ganglion cysts are two possible causes for a knot or cyst in the palm of the hand. Read more about them and treatments.
If you're experiencing tenderness at the base of the thumb, you may want to get a de Quervain's tensosynovitis test.
What is a ganglion cyst and what should you do if you suspect you have one? Read more about symptoms and treatments.
