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Health Dictionary

Reliable, easy-to-read patient information on common medical conditions — written in plain language, free of jargon, and grounded in current evidence. Browse the most frequent diagnoses, understand what they mean for everyday life, and learn which steps and questions help you have a focused conversation with your doctor.

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Claw hand

Introduction

A hand imitating an ulnar claw. The metacarpophalangeal joints of the 4th and 5th fingers are extended and the Interphalangeal joints of the same fingers are flexed.
Overview

Overview

Claw hand is a condition that causes curved or bent fingers. This makes the hand appear like the claw of an animal. Claw hand can be something that someone is born with (congenital) or that they develop because of certain disorders, such as nerve injury.

Causes

Causes

  • Congenital abnormality
  • Leprosy
  • Nerve damage in the arm
  • Scarring after a severe burn of the hand or forearm
Diagnosis

Diagnosis

The following tests may be performed:

  • Electromyography (EMG)
  • Nerve conduction studies
Treatment

Treatment

Treatment depends on the cause. It may include:

  • Splinting
  • Surgery to fix problems that may be contributing to the claw hand, such as nerve problems, tendon abnormalities, or scar tissue
  • Therapy to straighten the fingers
Source

Source

Medline Plus [2]

References

References

Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]