How effective is hand therapy for Dupuytren's contracture?

Dupuytren's contracture causes thickened tissue in the palm to pull one or more fingers towards the hand. A hand therapist may assess finger movement, grip, skin condition and the way you use your hand. Therapy can include gentle exercises, splinting after a procedure, scar care and advice on adapting tasks. These measures may help protect movement and make daily activities easier. They cannot reliably reverse an established cord on their own, so a bent finger may need assessment by a hand specialist.

Ask for an individual plan rather than forcing the finger straight. Practise only the movements prescribed, because aggressive stretching can irritate the palm. Use any splint exactly as directed and tell the therapist if it causes numbness, skin pressure or increasing pain. Track practical changes such as putting your hand into a pocket, washing your face or placing it flat on a table. If movement continues to reduce, discuss whether an injection, needle procedure or surgery is appropriate alongside therapy.

Arrange a clinical review if the finger is becoming more bent, the palm develops a painful lump, or hand use is changing. Seek prompt help after a procedure if the wound becomes increasingly red, swollen or draining, or if you develop new loss of sensation or finger movement.

Is the contracture mild enough for observation and therapy, or does the cord need a procedure? What movement should I practise, and which positions should I avoid? If I have treatment, when should hand therapy begin and what signs suggest a splint needs adjustment?