Contracture Dermatogenic

Dermatogenous contractures are a pathological joint condition in which one or more joints in the hand or foot become weakened and partially shortened due to contraction of the muscles around the joint or the ligaments connecting the joint. This is usually the result of trauma to the skin at the joint or surrounding tissues, resulting in increased swelling and inflammation that reduces the space around the joint and compresses adjacent muscles and ligaments, causing contracture. Dermatogenic joint contractures can occur in any joint of the hand and foot, but the finger joints are most commonly affected due to their vulnerability to skin trauma. In children and adults, they are associated with skin trauma caused by play, cuts or punctures, rubbing the skin against hard objects, wearing tight shoes or cutting nails, and tearing muscle fibers. In more rare cases, dermal joint contractures lead to immobility of the finger due to the destruction of the cartilage of the articular surface (for example, psoriatic arthritis). Depending on the severity and location of the disease, surgery may be required to correct the contracture or keep the joint healthy. Treatment of dermatogenous contractures begins with quickly reducing skin and joint inflammation to prevent the disorder from worsening. Initial treatment depends on the type and extent of the illness, but usually includes rest and stress reduction. In severe forms, physical therapy, physiotherapy and orthopedic prostheses can be used. Surgery may be required to fully straighten the joint in severe contractures, but can be a very invasive and lengthy process.