From the Research
Claw hand in adults is primarily caused by nerve damage, specifically to the ulnar nerve, which controls the muscles responsible for finger movement, as supported by the study on ulnar nerve injuries 1. The most common causes of claw hand in adults include:
- Cubital tunnel syndrome (compression of the ulnar nerve at the elbow)
- Trauma or injury to the hand or arm
- Stroke affecting the brain areas controlling hand function
- Certain medical conditions like leprosy, Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease, and other peripheral neuropathies
- Diabetes, which can lead to claw hand through diabetic neuropathy
- Rheumatoid arthritis, which causes it through joint deformities and tendon damage
- Cervical radiculopathy (pinched nerves in the neck)
- Dupuytren's contracture (thickening of tissue in the palm)
- Muscle wasting from conditions like amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS)
Treatment depends on the underlying cause and may include:
- Physical therapy
- Splinting
- Medication for nerve pain (such as gabapentin or pregabalin)
- Anti-inflammatory drugs
- Surgery in severe cases, as discussed in the study on ulnar nerve complications after ulnar collateral ligament reconstruction of the elbow 2. It's worth noting that the study on intrathecal baclofen infusion-botulinum toxin combined treatment efficacy in the management of spasticity due to cerebral palsy 3 provides insight into the management of spasticity, but its relevance to claw hand in adults is limited. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to prevent permanent deformity, so anyone experiencing symptoms of claw hand should seek medical attention promptly, as the study on tone reduction and physical therapy 4 highlights the importance of early intervention in managing spasticity and related conditions.