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Hand & Wrist Conditions
Dupuytren’s Contracture
Overview
Dupuytren’s contracture is an orthopaedic disorder that causes one or several fingers to bend closer toward the palm, resulting in a significant loss of mobility. Knots of tissue develop underneath the skin, leading to the formation of a dense cord, a physical manifestation of the condition.
Common Signs of Dupuytren’s Contracture
Over time, symptoms of Dupuytren’s contracture worsen. As the condition regresses further over the years, a hard lump may form in the palm. The lump can transgress to a sturdy cord beneath the skin to the finger. The cord may tighten and bend the finger closer towards the palm, making it difficult to perform everyday tasks that require full use of the hand.
Causes of Dupuytren’s Contracture
There is still insufficient evidence to prove the exact cause of Dupuytren’s contracture. The development of the disorder may occur for various reasons related to the following:
- As we age, the risk increases, particularly for those fifty and over.
- Certain occupations that involve the daily use of vibrating equipment are at higher risk.
- Smoking
- An underlying health condition such as diabetes.
Diagnosing Dupuytren’s Contracture
Diagnosing Dupuytren’s contracture is a task for doctors, who use their expertise to visually and physically evaluate the hands. They look for abnormal signs such as skin puckering on the palms. They may also apply pressure to the fingers and hands to detect unusual bands of tissue or hard knots. A key indicator for treatment is the inability to fully flatten the fingers against a hard surface.
Treatment for Dupuytren’s Contracture
If the disorder progresses, causing pain and impacting the ability to use your hands, you may require treatment. Typically, this involves surgically breaking apart or removing the cords responsible for pulling your fingers towards your palm. For patients with severe symptoms, surgery to remove the tissue responsible for abnormally bent fingers is beneficial.
Dupuytren’s Contracture FAQ:
How do you know you need surgery for Dupuytren’s contracture?
Surgery is usually considered when the contracture interferes with daily activities or significantly limits finger movement. You may need surgery if:
- Fingers cannot fully straighten, making it difficult to grip, write, or perform tasks.
- Nodules or cords are progressive and causing deformity.
- Non-surgical treatments, such as enzyme injections or splinting, are no longer effective.
An orthopaedic surgeon will evaluate your finger function and recommend the most appropriate treatment.
How long do symptoms of Dupuytren’s contracture last?
Dupuytren's contracture is a gradually progressive condition.
- Early symptoms, like small nodules in the palm, can remain mild for months or years.
- Over time, the condition can slowly worsen, causing finger contractures.
- While progression varies between individuals, ongoing monitoring and early intervention help manage symptoms and preserve hand function.
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