Hi I am currently in Germany and have just had PNF on both my index fingers. I have had many surgeries over the past 25 years and also RT on both hands on 2007. In the last fortnight ,whilst I was in the North of Germany , I had PNF on my left index finger,by Dr. Frank LENZE in Bielefeld. Two days ago I had PNF to the right index finger by Dr. Albrecht MEINEL and Prof. Frank STAUB in Dossenheim a suburb of Heidelberg. I found that each Dr. had a different technique. Dr LENZE has carried out 1000 PNF procedures for over 20 years. He uses larger needles bent at 45 degrees which are not the needles used in the "French Method". This means entry point of the needle is not perpendicular to the finger. Dr. LENZE maintained there was a lesser chance of nerve damage as the needle was travelling in the direction of any tendon or nerves. On the left index I had a 30 degree contracture, with a band running through the PIP and MCP joint ,accompanied with a large depression between the two joints . Post PNF I now have 10 degree with limited release to the PIP joint. I am satisfied with the result. Dr. MEINEL, who has extensive experience for many years uses the "French Method"using thinner needles and the entry is perpendicular to the finger surface. My right index finger had a repeat surgery in 2007 ,which makes FURTHER SURGERY or PNF more than difficult. I had a large band ,the width of the finger, growing between the two joints and within the last 12 months the contraction increased 10 degrees to 20 degrees contractor. The band extended into the palm leading up to a large graft. There was also a band in the web between the middle finger restricting the sideways movement. I was now having trouble to carry out simply tasks. Post PNF I had zero contracture in the passive position. I was very happy with the result. Dr. MEINEL made a Silicone splint after the PNF . I was advised by both Doctors that for no longer then 10 days I should try to sit on the treated finger whilst seated on a soft lounge which will assist in the procedure. IMPORTANT NOTE -AFTER 10 DAYS NO FURTHER STRETCHING TO THE JOINTS .
My experience may be of help to others considering PNF and backs up what Prof. SEEGENSCHMIED advised back on 07 that RT does not preclude other treatment at a later stage.

Edited 11/08/13 15:05

I would mention that all three practitioners in Germany spoke fluent English. PNF or NA also has some risk like any intervention. The cutting of any cord in the palm is easy compared to the PIP joint area. Repeat PNF may not be as successful as the initial procedure and one should always be aware of this. I would urge any one considering PNF or NA to view the U tube procedures on this site from the 2010 Miami Conference of the Dupuytren Foundation .