This is a contraction of dense connective tissue (fascia) in the hand.  It most commonly involves the ring finger but can involve other fingers and the thumb. It has a strong genetic component and usually occurs in people with northern European ancestry, hence the nickname ‘Viking disease’. Patients often complain of an inability to straighten their fingers, this may cause difficulty with washing your face, or putting your hand in your pocket

Non-surgical treatment: Dividing the dense cord (needle fasciotomy) under local anaesthetic is suitable in some cases. This can be done in Dr McGonagle’s office.