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Dupuytren’s Contracture Progression: What Happens If It’s Left Untreated?

Tue, 24 Feb 2026 13:12:11 GMT

Dupuytren’s contracture is a progressive connective tissue disorder of the hand that affects the fascia — the layer of tissue just beneath the skin of the palm and fingers. Over time, this tissue thickens and tightens, forming cords that can pull one or more fingers into a bent position.

The condition typically develops slowly and painlessly, which is why many people ignore early symptoms. What may begin as a small lump in the palm can gradually evolve into finger stiffness and loss of motion. Because progression often occurs over years rather than months, it can be easy to underestimate its long-term impact.

While Dupuytren’s contracture is not life-threatening and does not usually affect overall health, it can significantly impact hand function, independence, and quality of life if left untreated. Everyday tasks such as shaking hands, gripping large objects, wearing gloves, typing, washing your face, or placing your hand flat on a surface can become increasingly difficult.

What Typically Happens Over Time?

Unfortunately , the nature of the condition varies widely from person to person. Some individuals experience very slow progression over decades, while others develop noticeable finger contractures more quickly. Understanding what happens when Dupuytren’s contracture is left untreated can help patients recognize when simple observation or intervention may be necessary.

1. Progressive Finger Contracture

Without treatment, the cords continue to tighten.

Fingers gradually become permanently bent (flexed).
You lose the ability to fully straighten the finger(s).
The contracture typically worsens slowly over years, but progression speed varies from person to person.

At this stage:

Gripping large objects becomes difficult.
Putting hands in pockets or wearing gloves may be challenging.
Hand hygiene and nail care can become harder.

Contact Our Hand Doctor Today to Schedule a Consultation

If you are unsure whether your symptoms warrant treatment, a consultation with a hand specialist can provide clarity and help you understand your options. Monitoring progression over time allows for treatment at the most appropriate stage — before significant functional limitations develop. At CT Hand Center , Dr. Sajjad and his team provide a personalized diagnosis and treatment plan tailored to your needs.

Contact one of our two convenient office locations in Madison, CT, or New London, CT today to schedule an evaluation and learn how we can help preserve your hand function.

What Causes Carpal Tunnel Syndrome? Risk Factors, Jobs, & Prevention

Tue, 24 Feb 2026 13:04:49 GMT

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome 101:

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) is one of the most common nerve-related conditions affecting the hand and wrist. It can start subtly—maybe a bit of tingling or mild hand pain—and gradually interfere with everyday tasks like typing, gripping objects, or even sleeping comfortably. Understanding what causes carpal tunnel syndrome, who’s most at risk, and how to prevent it can make a real difference in protecting long-term hand health.

Common Causes of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

There isn’t always a single cause of CTS. In many cases, it develops due to a combination of factors that increase pressure within the carpal tunnel.

1. Repetitive Hand & Wrist Movements

Repeated motions—especially those involving bending the wrist or gripping—can irritate the tendons in the carpal tunnel. Over time, this irritation may lead to inflammation and nerve compression.

2. Wrist Position & Poor Ergonomics

Holding the wrist in awkward or flexed positions for long periods, such as while typing or using tools, increases strain on the median nerve. Poor workstation setup is a surprisingly common contributor.

3. Injury or Trauma

Wrist fractures, sprains, or direct trauma can alter the structure of the carpal tunnel, leaving less room for the nerve and tendons.

4. Medical Conditions

Certain health issues are associated with a higher risk of carpal tunnel syndrome, including:

Diabetes
Rheumatoid arthritis
Thyroid disorders
Fluid retention during pregnancy

These conditions can increase swelling or affect nerve health, making compression more likely.

Jobs & Activities Linked to Higher Risk

While carpal tunnel syndrome can affect anyone, some jobs place more strain on the hands and wrists than others.

High-Risk Occupations Include:

Office workers who spend long hours typing or using a mouse
Assembly line and factory workers
Construction workers using vibrating tools
Hairstylists, musicians, and artists
Healthcare workers performing repetitive manual tasks

It’s not just the job title that matters—it’s how often and how intensely the hands are used, and whether proper breaks and ergonomics are in place.

Early Warning Signs to Watch For

Catching symptoms early can help prevent long-term damage. Common warning signs include:

Tingling or numbness in the fingers
Burning or aching hand pain, especially at night
Weak grip or difficulty holding small objects
Symptoms that worsen with repetitive activity

Ignoring these signs may allow the condition to progress, sometimes to the point where conservative treatments are no longer effective.

Prevention: How to Protect Your Hands & Wrists

The good news is that many cases of carpal tunnel syndrome can be prevented—or at least delayed—with smart habits and early intervention.

Practical Prevention Tips:

Improve ergonomics: Keep wrists neutral while typing or working
Take frequent breaks: Short, regular breaks reduce strain
Stretch and strengthen: Gentle hand and wrist exercises improve flexibility
Use proper tools: Ergonomic keyboards, mouse devices, and padded grips help reduce pressure
Listen to your body: Don’t push through pain or numbness

Making small adjustments can significantly lower the risk of developing chronic symptoms.

When Is Treatment Needed?

Early carpal tunnel syndrome often responds well to non-surgical treatments like splinting, activity modification, anti-inflammatory measures, or physical therapy. However, if symptoms persist or worsen, more advanced care may be required.

In severe cases—especially when nerve damage is present—hand surgery may be recommended to relieve pressure on the median nerve and restore function. Surgical treatment is typically considered only after conservative options have failed and is often very effective when performed at the right time.

Providing Comprehensive Care for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Carpal tunnel syndrome is a common condition, but it isn’t inevitable. Understanding its causes, recognizing risk factors, and taking preventive steps can go a long way toward protecting your hands. If you’re experiencing persistent symptoms, early evaluation is essential—addressing the issue sooner may help prevent long-term discomfort and reduce the need for more invasive treatments.

The experienced doctors at the CT Hand Center are here to help. Whether you’re dealing with ongoing hand pain or new symptoms, our team works to identify the underlying cause and develop a personalized treatment plan. Dr. Sajjad is an expert in minimally invasive surgery, including carpal tunnel. If you have questions or would like to schedule a consultation , contact one of our offices in Madison or New London, CT .

Life After Hand & Wrist Surgery: Recovery Tips & What to Expect

Thu, 04 Dec 2025 17:57:53 GMT

After Hand & Wrist Surgery Guide: Your Recovery Roadmap

Undergoing hand surgery or wrist surgery can be a big step toward regaining function and relieving pain caused by injury, arthritis, or other conditions. While surgery often brings much-needed relief, recovery requires patience, consistency, and care. Knowing what to expect can make the process smoother and less stressful.

1. The First Few Days: Rest & Protection

Immediately after surgery, your hand or wrist will likely be bandaged or immobilized in a splint or cast. Keeping the surgical site elevated above heart level helps reduce swelling and discomfort. Pain and stiffness are common, but your doctor will prescribe medication or recommend over-the-counter options to help manage it.

Avoid using your operated hand for daily tasks until cleared by your surgeon — even small movements can impact healing in the early stages.

2. Managing Swelling & Discomfort

Swelling is part of the body’s natural healing response. To minimize it:

Keep your hand elevated as much as possible.
Apply ice packs (as directed by your care team).
Move your fingers gently to maintain circulation if approved by your surgeon.

These small steps can help prevent stiffness and promote faster recovery.

3. Physical Therapy & Rehabilitation

Rehabilitation is one of the most important parts of recovery. A physical or occupational therapist will guide you through exercises that gradually restore motion, strength, and dexterity. These sessions are tailored to your specific surgery and goals — whether that’s returning to sports, work, or simply everyday activities.

Patience is key—recovery takes time, and regaining full strength and movement in your hand or wrist may take weeks or even months, depending on your procedure.

4. Nutrition & Overall Health

Good nutrition supports tissue repair and overall recovery. A balanced diet rich in lean proteins, fruits, vegetables, and hydration helps speed healing. Avoid smoking, as it can restrict blood flow and delay recovery.

Rest is equally important—your body does its best healing when you’re asleep.

5. Signs to Call Your Surgeon

While mild swelling and soreness are normal, contact your surgeon if you experience:

Persistent or increasing pain
Excessive swelling or redness
Drainage from the incision
Fever or chills

Catching potential complications early ensures the best possible outcome.

6. Getting Back to Daily Life

As you recover, you’ll gradually regain strength and mobility. Most patients can return to light activities within a few weeks, but full recovery may take several months. Follow your surgeon’s guidance closely and don’t rush the process—giving your body time to heal properly is key to long-term success.

Have More Questions

Recovering from hand or wrist surgery takes time and commitment, but with the right care plan and guidance, excellent results are within reach. If you have any additional questions or would like to schedule a consultation, reach out to the team at CT Hand Center. We’re proud to serve patients at our two conveniently located offices in Madison and New London, CT. specialists are dedicated to helping you regain comfort, mobility, and confidence in your recovery journey!

Hand Fractures: When Is Surgery Required?

Fri, 07 Nov 2025 15:20:50 GMT

Understanding Hand Fractures

Our hands are intricate structures of small bones, tendons, and ligaments that allow for remarkable dexterity. A hand fracture — a break in one or more of the bones — can significantly impact daily life. While many fractures heal with rest, splints, or casts, others require hand surgery to restore proper function and alignment.

Common Causes of Hand Fractures

Hand fractures often occur from falls, sports injuries, or direct trauma such as hitting an object or getting caught in machinery. The severity of the injury can range from minor cracks to complex breaks that displace bones or affect joints.

Not all hand fractures are immediately obvious. You may notice the following symptoms:

Persistent hand pain or tenderness
Swelling or bruising
Difficulty moving fingers
Visible deformity or misalignment
Numbness or tingling

If these symptoms persist after an injury, it’s important to see a specialist to prevent long-term complications.

When Is Surgery Necessary?

Surgery for a hand fracture is typically required when:

The bones are displaced or misaligned
The fracture extends into a joint
There are multiple fractures in the same area
Bone fragments have pierced the skin
The injury involves tendon or nerve damage

During hand surgery, a surgeon may use pins, screws, or plates to stabilize the bones, allowing them to heal in the correct position. Early surgical intervention can help restore full motion and prevent arthritis or stiffness later on.

Recovery & Rehabilitation

After treatment, rehabilitation is key. Physical therapy helps restore strength, flexibility, and coordination. Even with successful surgery, it may take weeks to months before the hand feels normal again. Consistent follow-up with your healthcare provider ensures proper healing.

When to Seek Help

If you’re experiencing ongoing hand pain, swelling, or limited motion after an injury, don’t delay medical attention. A qualified hand specialist can determine whether surgery is the best option to restore your hand’s function and prevent chronic issues.

Fortunately, the team at CT Hand Center is here to help. To learn more about your treatment options, contact one of our offices in Madison or New London, CT to schedule a consultation. Whatever the cause of your hand pain, our team will create a personalized treatment plan tailored to your specific needs and recovery goals.

Choosing the Right Hand Doctor: What Patients Should Look For

Mon, 06 Oct 2025 19:22:17 GMT

Find a Hand Doctor: A Guide for Patients

Experiencing hand pain, stiffness, or injury can significantly impact your daily life, affecting your ability to work, perform household tasks, and enjoy your hobbies. When you need specialized care for your hands, finding a hand doctor is a critical first step toward recovery. This guide provides comprehensive information on what to look for in a qualified hand specialist to ensure you receive the best possible treatment for your condition.

Key Qualifications to Look for in a Hand Doctor

1. Board Certification

One of the most important credentials to verify is board certification. A surgeon who is board-certified by the American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery or the American Board of Plastic Surgery has demonstrated a high level of knowledge and skill in their primary specialty.

Furthermore, look for a surgeon who holds a Subspecialty Certificate in Surgery of the Hand (formerly called a Certificate of Added Qualifications or CAQ). This certification indicates that the surgeon has passed a rigorous examination specifically focused on hand and upper extremity surgery, confirming their expertise in this field.

2. Fellowship Training in Hand Surgery

Fellowship training is an additional year or more of specialized training that a surgeon completes after their residency. A fellowship in hand surgery provides in-depth, hands-on experience in managing all aspects of hand and wrist problems, including:

Traumatic injuries, such as fractures and tendon lacerations.
Degenerative conditions, like arthritis.
Nerve compression syndromes, including carpal tunnel syndrome.
Congenital differences.
Specific conditions like trigger finger and Dupuytren's contracture.

A fellowship-trained surgeon has devoted significant time to mastering the complex anatomy and procedures of the hand.

3. Experience & Specialization

While board certification and fellowship training are crucial, a doctor's practical experience is equally important. Inquire about the surgeon's experience in treating your specific condition. Do not hesitate to ask questions such as:

"How many times have you treated a condition like mine?"
"What is your success rate with this type of hand surgery?"
"What are the common outcomes and potential complications?"

A confident and experienced surgeon will be prepared to answer these questions clearly.

Common Conditions Treated by Hand Doctors

A skilled hand specialist can diagnose and treat a wide range of issues, including:

Arthritis: Chronic pain, stiffness, and swelling in the joints may signal osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis. Treatments range from medications and therapy to joint replacement.

Trigger Finger: A condition that causes a finger to get stuck in a bent position and straightens with a painful pop. Options include injections or minor outpatient surgery.

Dupuytren's Contracture: A progressive condition where knots of tissue form under the skin of the palm, eventually creating a thick cord that can pull one or more fingers into a bent position. Treatment options can restore function.

Hand Fractures: Broken bones in the hand or wrist require expert care to ensure proper healing and alignment, preserving long-term function.

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: Numbness, tingling, and weakness in the hand caused by pressure on the median nerve in the wrist.

Tendon & Nerve Injuries: Lacerations and other trauma can damage the delicate tendons and nerves in the hand, requiring meticulous surgical repair.

Making Your Decision

When you’re seeking treatment for chronic hand pain, choosing the right doctor is a partnership. Look for a specialist who not only has top credentials but also listens carefully, explains clearly, and makes you feel comfortable. Take time to research, read patient reviews, and book a consultation to discuss your goals. By selecting a fellowship-trained and experienced hand specialist, you take an important step toward relieving pain, restoring function, and getting back to the activities that matter most.

For more information or to schedule a consultation with a hand doctor, reach out to the team at CT Hand Center. We have two convenient locations in Madison and New London, CT. No matter the nature of your hand pain, we will work with you to develop a comprehensive treatment plan based on your needs and goals.

New Haven Register Article

Wed, 07 May 2025 14:00:08 GMT

Don’t Let Pain Impact Your Quality of Life. See a Specialist at CT Hand Center

George, a 58-year-old master carpenter in New London, built his reputation crafting custom cabinetry and restoring historic New England homes. The shooting pain that developed in his dominant hand began affecting the precision work he was known for – especially during the intricate dovetail joints that were his signature. As the condition worsened, he started declining the high-end restoration projects that had become his specialty. After nearly dropping an antique mantelpiece that he was restoring for a Victorian home in the Coit Street Historic District, he realized his reputation – and his clients’ irreplaceable pieces – were at risk.

“George’s story is far from unique,” says Sepehr Sajjad, M.D., F.A.C.S., a hand surgeon at the CT Hand Center . “Many people live with aches and pains in their hands.”

Millions of Americans suffer from chronic hand or wrist pain. Some change the way they do things or even stop engaging in some activities altogether. Yet most chronic pain caused by conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome, trigger finger, and overuse injuries doesn’t go away on its own.

Ask any expert – full functionality of the hand, wrist, and elbow is essential for daily activities. Whatever it is you love to do – whether cooking, biking, or playing with the kids – healthy hands are an important part of life. Those who have an injury or pain should not let a condition impact their quality of life but rather seek care from a specialist who can get them back to what’s most important.

“If you’re suffering from daily pain that’s affecting your quality of life, seek out someone who is experienced, fellowship-trained, and certified,” says Dr. Sajjad , who specializes in minimally invasive hand, wrist, and elbow surgery. At the CT Hand Center, Dr. Sajjad has treated over 20,000 carpal tunnels, trigger fingers, and performed tens of thousands of hand surgeries over his illustrious career. “Patients should go to a specialist who has done thousands of hand surgeries, not a generalist who does three per year or someone fresh out of school. Experience matters in surgery.”

Why Seeing a Specialist Matters

According to hand experts like Dr. Sajjad, there are several important reasons why seeing a specialist for hand, wrist and elbow pain is imperative. Unlike general orthopedic surgeons who must maintain broad medical knowledge, or operate on different body parts, hand specialists focus exclusively on the complex network of bones, tendons, nerves, and blood vessels in the hand, wrist, and elbow. This specialized expertise allows them to recognize subtle distinctions between similar conditions that might be missed by a generalist. For instance, what might appear as general carpal tunnel syndrome to a general orthopedic surgeon could be a specific nerve compression at the elbow that requires a different treatment approach.

The hand and wrist contain some of the body’s most intricate structures, and seemingly minor injuries can have serious long-term consequences if not properly treated. Hand specialists have the advanced diagnostic tools and experience to identify potential complications early. They understand how different hand conditions progress over time and can intervene before permanent damage occurs. For example, they might recognize that thumb pain in an artist isn’t just tendinitis, but rather early stages of basal joint arthritis that requires preventive treatment to preserve long-term function.

Hand specialists have extensive training in both surgical and non-surgical treatments specifically designed for upper extremity conditions. Dr. Sajjad is fellowship-trained in hand and microsurgery from Yale University and is chief of hand surgery at both L&M Hospital and Westerly Hospital. As such, Dr. Sajjad offers more up to date and wider range of treatment options than a general orthopedic surgeon, from specialized physical therapy to minimally invasive surgery.

CT Hand Center Provides a Boutique Experience

CT Hand Center stands apart for providing a boutique experience for patients. Unlike large healthcare systems, where patients don’t spend much time with providers, CT Hand Center ensures that every patient gets personalized attention with a specialist. Dr. Sajjad and his team take the time to get to know patients, their stories, and their concerns. “I treat all my patients as if I am treating my family member,” Dr. Sajjad says. Listening to patients’ unique circumstances means that they feel better understood, supported, and cared for from the very start.

Furthermore, Dr. Sajjad is involved in every step of the process – from diagnosis to recovery. He educates patients on their condition, guides them through their treatment options, and creates nuanced care plans tailored to each patient’s specific needs. This in-depth, personalized care makes for the best possible health outcomes for patients.

CT Hand Center’s boutique care approach means:

You are treated like family – Patients are known by name and receive customized treatment.
You have direct access to a specialist – Dr. Sajjad personally oversees every case.
Your quality of life matters – Care is designed to get patients back to their daily routines, careers, hobbies, and other meaningful activities in life.

Dr. Sajjad’s experience treating thousands of patients has given him a deep empathy for those struggling with debilitating pain. It’s his mission to help those reclaim their pain-free life before the onset of the injury. “I tell my patients, don’t let pain impact your quality of life,” he says. “At CT Hand Center, we can help.”

About CT Hand Center

Founded in 2015, the Connecticut Hand Center is the practice of Sepehr Sajjad M.D., F.A.C.S., a double board-certified surgeon, is fellowship-trained in hand and microsurgery and specializes in minimally invasive hand, wrist, and elbow surgery. Dr. Sajjad treats chronic and acute hand disorders such as carpal tunnel, trigger finger, hand and wrist fractures, performs total wrist replacement surgery, and specializes in sport and work-related injuries.

There’s no reason to let hand and wrist pain affect your quality of life. Seeing a specialist for treatment can be transformative. For more information visit cthandcenter.com . Call 203-245-4500 for the Madison office and 860-442-4500 for the New London office.

By Alison Pfaff, New Haven Register

Best of New Haven & Fairfield County 2020

Thu, 30 Jan 2020 04:25:54 GMT

DOUBLE BOARD CERTIFIED HAND SURGEON

Dr. Sepehr Sajjad, founder of CONNECTICUT HAND CENTER, is a double board-certified surgeon, fellowship-trained in hand and microsurgery and specializes in minimally invasive hand, wrist and elbow surgery. He treats chronic and acute hand disorders such as carpal tunnel, cubital tunnel, trigger finger, hand and wrist fractures, congenital and pediatric hand and wrist disorders, performs total wrist replacement surgery, and specializes in sport and work-related injuries.

Dr. Sajjad is a leader in the field of hand surgery and has helped to develop and produce surgical instruments for minimally invasive surgery. His office conveniently provides emergency hand care, in-office diagnostic imaging, physical and occupational therapy with a certified hand therapist, diagnostic testing, and same day surgery. Patients find comfort knowing a supervised and coordinated team at the Connecticut Hand Center can address all of their entire upper extremity ailments. www.CTHandCenter.com

Best of New Haven/Fairfield County 2020

Westerly Sun Business Profile

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 04:22:30 GMT

Connecticut Hand Center: Dr. Sepehr Sajjad

Office Locations:
59 Faire Harbour Place, New London
115 Samson Rock, Madison,CT

860-442 4500

What services do you provide for our community?
We specialize in, but are not limited to, carpal tunnel, arthritis, hand pain, and all work and sports related injuries...and we’re right here in Westerly to serve this community.

When did your practice start?
In 2015 we opened the Connecticut Hand Center in Connecticut, but we saw a real need for this in Westerly that wasn’t being met; so in 2016 we opened our office right here at the Morgan Building.

How many people do you employ, and how do you keep your best talent?
We have 10 employees total. But I’ve always thought it’s not about the actual number, but about good quality patient care. So we made sure to staff our offices with very seasoned professionals. We took the very best of them from three hospitals: The Westerly Hospital, Lawrence and Memorial, and Yale to ensure that our patient-centered practice was staffed by people who were like-minded.

What is your favorite part about being a surgeon in our community?
Without a doubt, meeting the people in this community. Our patients are very kind, interesting people.

What do you think is the most effective promotional tool for your practice?
It’s our good reputation married with the good word of mouth we have gotten in the Westerly community. I value the Doctor-Patient bond above all else. I believe people don’t like the impersonal nature of corporate medicine, so we work very hard to establish ongoing, very personal relationships with our patients.

How much time do you spend onsite?
Our office is open every day, five days a week, and emergencies and consultations are always handled by me on weekends.

What inspired the brand/personality of your practice?
Above all else it is the Doctor-Patient relationship and also our continued excellent outcomes that powers this practice.

What has been the biggest challenge for your practice in the past year?
Trying to increase visibility, letting patients know that we’re right here in Westerly, right in their backyard. People who are experiencing pain in their hands do not have to go to Boston or Hartford. We’re here, we’re Yale trained, and we’re ready to help them relieve their pain so they can get on with their lives.

Do you have plans in 2018 to grow or change, and what are they?
We just hired another Yale-trained hand surgeon to work in our offices, Dr. Chad Wu, and we’re so happy to have another professional who cares about the patient first and not corporate medicine.

What sets your practice apart from others?
We are a niche practice of medicine. Hand surgery is highly specialized. Our focus is doing procedures that are minimally invasive. For example, I can do a carpal tunnel procedure in just five minutes, and our patients can drive the very next day! No long recovery or downtime. Most of the incisions I make are less than a centimeter.

What advice would you give to other medical practitioners in our community?
Get to know the culture of the community; get to know the families...and LISTEN! Not enough doctors listen to their patients...they’ll tell you what’s wrong.

L&M Wellness Talk

Thu, 02 Nov 2017 04:19:09 GMT

Join Dr Sajjad during the Wellness Talk about Carpal Tunnel treatment and recovery at Lawrence & Memorial Hospital Baker Auditorium on Tuesday November 14th, 2017. The talk will start at 5:30 pm.

Lawrence + Memorial Hospital is located at 365 Montauk Avenue, New London, CT 06320

ABC News 8 - American Healthfront

Mon, 23 Oct 2017 04:08:27 GMT

ABC News 8 - American Healthfront

CT Magazine Article

Tue, 18 Jul 2017 04:05:43 GMT

Westerly Wellness: Empowerment Through Education

Sat, 15 Jul 2017 03:58:01 GMT

CT Hand Center utilizes EPIC EHR

Tue, 02 May 2017 03:54:51 GMT

Fully integrated medical records with Yale New Haven Hospital systems and providers. This allows your entire care at CT Hand Center to be coordinated with care received along all lines of medical specialties. We are proud to offer our patients this level of precise medical record integration.