How is Dupuytren's contracture treated?

Dupuytren's contracture causes thickened tissue in the palm that can form cords toward the fingers. As a cord tightens, the affected finger may bend toward the palm and resist straightening. Finger stiffness and reduced range of motion can make handshakes, putting a hand flat on a table, or placing the hand into a pocket harder.

A clinician examines the palm and measures finger movement and function. Mild changes may be watched over time. Treatment is considered when contracture interferes with daily tasks, rather than simply because a lump or cord is present.

Hand therapy may support movement, comfort, scar care, and practical hand use before or after an intervention. Exercises should be selected for the actual restriction; forceful stretching cannot remove a tight cord and may irritate the hand.

When bending is functionally limiting, a specialist may discuss Dupuytren's surgery to release or remove the contracted tissue. The procedure, wound care, splinting, and therapy plan depend on the fingers involved and the extent of the cord. Symptoms can change again after treatment, so follow-up remains useful.

Arrange an assessment if a palm cord is enlarging, a finger is becoming harder to straighten, or hand movement is interfering with work or self-care. Seek prompt review for sudden severe pain, marked redness or warmth, drainage after a procedure, new numbness, or a finger that becomes cold or discoloured.

Ask how much movement is affected, whether observation is reasonable, what hand therapy can achieve, and which procedure fits your pattern. Ask about splinting, wound care, expected rehabilitation, and signs of nerve or circulation problems.