Dupuytren’s contracture, also known as Dupuytren’s disease, is a common hand condition that causes the fingers to curl inwards towards the hand. This condition thickens a layer of tissue in the hand, known as the palmar fascia. Fascia sits underneath the skin in the palm of the hand and, once thickened, can form into a thick lump or cord of scar tissue. This lump or cord can pull the fingers, causing one or more fingers to curl inwards towards the palm or sideways in a bent position. Once thickened, the fascia tightens over time, which creates tension in the fingers, known as the Dupuytren’s contracture. This condition can worsen over time, affecting hand function and making daily tasks difficult. Any finger can be affected by this condition, however, the ring finger and its accompanying little finger are usually affected. In some rare cases, the feet can be affected by Dupuytren’s contracture.
There is no clear cause for Dupuytren’s contracture, however, genetics can play a key role in the development of this condition. This disease is known to be hereditary and can be more prevalent in men than women. Those with diabetes, epilepsy, smokers and heavy drinkers are at more risk of developing the condition.
Benign nodules are the first symptom of this disease that appears. Then, the scar tissue cords will tighten, pulling your fingers towards your palm. Not everyone with Dupuytren’s disease develops this symptom, and instead the condition can just develop nodules. Dupuytren’s contracture differs per person, with some saying that it is painful and others experiencing no pain. This condition usually restricts the movement of the hands, limiting the daily activity of those affected by it, such as any action that involves bending fingers. Once this condition progresses to this severity, surgical and non-surgical treatments can be used to prevent the disease’s advancement and to aid in levels of movement in the hand.