Index
It is a joint deformity of the hand that causes abnormally curved or bent fingers.
This makes the hand appear abnormally similar to an animal’s claw.
The condition can be caused by a congenital deformity that is diagnosed at birth (congenital onset) or due to injury to the ulnar nerve, which is why this condition is also known as an ulnar claw.
Claw hand is often mistaken for another condition called Dupuytren’s contracture. However, unlike Dupuytren’s contracture, the claw hand does not produce nodules on the hands.
Treatment measures associated with claw hands include surgical and non-surgical methods.
Who can get claw hand condition?
- It can be a congenital condition; it can be inherited or even acquired.
- Men are more likely to develop the disease than women.
- The congenital form of claw hand is common in both men and women.
- No racial or ethnic preference is observed.
What are the risk factors for claw hands?
There are no well-identified risk factors for the development of claw hands. However, men are more likely to develop this condition than women.
It is important to note that having a risk factor does not mean that one will get the condition. A risk factor increases the chances of contracting a disease compared to an individual without the risk factors. Some risk factors are more important than others.
What are the causes of claw hand?
Some causes of claw hand can include:
- Congenital abnormality (present at birth).
- Damage to the ulnar nerve occurs during delivery.
- Acquired palsy of the ulnar and median nerves.
- The development of scars after severe burns to the hands or forearms.
- Ulnar nerve palsy can be both congenital and acquired.
- Nervous paralysis due to leprosy.
Worldwide, nervous paralysis due to leprosy is the most common cause of claw hands.
What are the signs and symptoms of claw hands?
Claw hand signs and symptoms include:
- Bend or flex one or more fingers towards the palm.
- Deformity and numbness in the affected finger.
How is claw hand diagnosed?
The healthcare provider may use a complete physical exam and a complete medical history evaluation to help diagnose claw hands. They can also perform:
Detailed examination of the hands, comparing both hands to check for signs and symptoms of the condition.
The doctor may also test the range of motion of the fingers to determine if there is any limited or restricted movement.
Many clinical conditions can have similar signs and symptoms. Your healthcare provider may perform additional tests to rule out other clinical conditions to arrive at a definitive diagnosis.
What are the possible complications of claw hands?
Claw hand complications can include:
- Loss of hand function, resulting in an inability to perform essential functions.
- Difficulty opening the hand.
- Difficulty grasping large objects.
How is claw hand treated?
Treatment for claw hands includes surgical and non-surgical methods, and this depends on the cause of the claw hand.
Non-surgical treatment measures for the acquired form of claw hand include:
Oral non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, such as indomethacin and naproxen, can be used to help decrease pain and swelling.
Complete immobilization of the hand in a cast may be required to restrict movement.
Corticosteroid injections can help temporarily relieve symptoms and improve the range of motion.
Physical therapy: After the symptoms have subsided, it is essential to start light movement exercises. Physical therapy can help restore strength, flexibility, and function in your hands. This can be used for the congenital form of claw hand as well.
Surgical treatment measures for claw hands involve fixing the underlying problems that contribute to the deformity. This can include nerve problems, tendon abnormalities, or scar tissue.
Are there measures to prevent claw hands?
There are no clearly established preventive measures for claw hands. However, early detection and treatment of the condition can improve the patient’s prognosis.
Claw hand forecast
The progression of the congenital form and the acquired form of the claw hand can be unpredictable in many cases. The acquired form of the claw hand also has a high recurrence rate.
About half of all claw hand cases can recur within about ten years.
