Do you suffer from Dupuytren’s Contracture?

What is Dupuytrens Contracture?

Dupuytren’s contracture is when 1 or more fingers bend in towards your palm. There’s no cure, but your fingers can be straightened if it’s severe.

Dupuytren’s contracture mainly affects the ring and little fingers. You can have it in both hands at the same time.

It tends to get slowly worse over many months or years. Treatment can’t usually help in the early stages.

Treatments for Dupuytren’s contracture

You can speak to a surgeon about the options, what the benefits and risks are, and what to expect afterwards.

Your finger may not be completely straight after treatment, and might not be as strong and flexible as it used to be.

The contracture could also come back after a few years.

What to expect after treatment

Recovery and aftercare can vary.

You may:

have a cast or support (splint) on your hand for a few days

have some pain, stiffness, bruising and swelling for a few weeks

need to wear a splint while sleeping for 3 to 6 months

be advised to do hand exercises for up to 6 months – you might see a physiotherapist

You can often start using your hand again after a few days, but it may be a few weeks before you can return to all your activities.

Causes and preventing Dupuytren’s contracture

Dupuytren’s contracture happens when the tissue under the skin near your fingers becomes thicker and less flexible.

The exact cause is unknown, but it’s been linked to:

having a family history of the condition

smoking

drinking lots of alcohol

having diabetes or epilepsy

It’s not known if you can prevent it or stop it coming back.

If you wish to book in for an initial consultation, call us at Rainham physiotherapy centre on 01634 377 638.