Dupuytren's ContractureHand Mobility Recovery
Progressive hand condition causing finger contracture and functional impairment. Learn about treatment options and management strategies.
Dupuytren's contracture typically affects the ring and little fingers, though it can involve any finger. The condition is more common in men over 50 and has a strong genetic component.
Common Symptoms
- • Nodules in the palm
- • Thickened skin and cords
- • Progressive finger contracture
- • Difficulty straightening fingers
- • Functional impairment
- • Skin dimpling or puckering
Commonly Affected Areas
- • Ring finger (most common)
- • Little finger
- • Middle finger
- • Index finger (less common)
- • Thumb (rare)
Disease Progression Stages
Formation of nodules in the palm
Symptoms
- • Small, firm nodules in palm
- • Mild tenderness
- • No finger contracture
- • Skin dimpling
Progression
May remain stable for years
Treatment
Observation, hand therapy
Cord formation begins
Symptoms
- • Nodules enlarge
- • Cord formation starts
- • Mild finger contracture
- • Skin tethering
Progression
Gradual progression over months to years
Treatment
Splinting, exercises, injections
Significant finger contracture develops
Symptoms
- • Thick cords in palm
- • Finger contracture >30°
- • Functional impairment
- • Difficulty with daily tasks
Progression
Progressive worsening without treatment
Treatment
Surgery, needle aponeurotomy
Advanced contracture with severe disability
Symptoms
- • Severe finger contracture
- • Multiple finger involvement
- • Significant functional loss
- • Hygiene difficulties
Progression
May become fixed without intervention
Treatment
Complex surgical procedures
Treatment Options
Conservative management for early stages
Interventions
- • Observation and monitoring
- • Hand therapy and exercises
- • Splinting (controversial)
- • Collagenase injections
- • Needle aponeurotomy
Clinical Information
Indications: Early stages, mild contracture
Success Rate: Variable, may slow progression
Definitive treatment for advanced contracture
Interventions
- • Fasciectomy (partial or total)
- • Fasciotomy (division of cords)
- • Dermofasciectomy with skin graft
- • Amputation (severe cases)
Clinical Information
Indications: Contracture >30°, functional impairment
Success Rate: Good short-term results, recurrence possible
Risk Factors
- • Family history
- • Northern European descent
- • Male gender
- • Age over 50
- • Diabetes mellitus
- • Epilepsy
- • Liver disease
- • Thyroid disorders
- • Smoking
- • Alcohol consumption
- • Manual labor
- • Hand trauma
Hand Therapy Exercise Program
3-4 times daily, hold 30 seconds
Daily, 2-3 sets of 10-15
Daily functional practice
Lifestyle Modifications
- • Avoid smoking and excessive alcohol
- • Manage diabetes and other conditions
- • Regular hand exercises
- • Protect hands from trauma
Monitoring and Care
- • Regular medical follow-up
- • Monitor progression
- • Early intervention when indicated
- • Hand therapy consultation
Early Consultation
- • New nodules in palm
- • Progressive finger contracture
- • Functional impairment
- • Family history of Dupuytren's contracture
Urgent Evaluation
- • Rapid progression
- • Severe contracture development
- • Inability to perform daily tasks
- • Pain or infection
Hand Therapy Aids
- • Extension splints
- • Therapy putty
- • Finger exercisers
- • Grip strengtheners
Adaptive Equipment
- • Built-up handles
- • Ergonomic tools
- • Button hooks
- • Zipper pulls
Comfort & Support
- • Hand cushions
- • Compression gloves
- • Heat therapy
- • Massage tools
Ask Our Orthopedic Assistant
Get personalized recommendations based on your specific condition
Welcome to OrthoGeeks! I'm your orthopedic assistant specializing in braces, supports, and mobility aids. I can help you find the right product for your specific condition, explain treatment options, or provide recovery guidance for injuries. All recommendations are based on current medical research and orthopedic best practices. Feel free to ask about any joint, muscle, or bone-related concerns you may have.
OrthoGeeks is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com