In Dupuytren's contracture management, extension splints are commonly used at night to accomplish which goal?

• A. Extension splint at night to maintain extension
• B. Wrist brace to increase flexion
• C. No splinting
• D. Cold pack therapy

Answer: (A)

In Dupuytren's contracture, the tendinous cords in the palm pull the fingers into flexion, so keeping the fingers in a straight, extended position during rest helps prevent progression of the contracture. An extension splint worn at night provides a gentle, prolonged stretch to the involved tissues, promoting remodeling of the scar tissue in a lengthened position and helping to maintain or improve joint extension over time. This approach targets the mechanical problem directly—holding the digits in extension to reduce tightening—rather than addressing inflammation or altering wrist positioning.

Wearing a wrist brace to increase flexion would work against the goal and could worsen the condition. Not using a splint offers no restriction on the path of contracture during healing or daily use, increasing the chance of progression. Cold pack therapy helps with inflammation or pain but doesn’t influence the fibrous changes in Dupuytren’s, so it isn’t the strategy used to preserve extension.