What are the treatment options for Dupuytren's contracture?

Dupuytren's contracture causes thickened tissue in the palm that can form cords and pull one or more fingers toward the palm. A clinician assesses which fingers are affected, how far they can straighten, whether the change is progressing, and how daily tasks are affected. Mild or stable changes may be observed with follow-up. Hand therapy can support movement, comfort and use of the hand, although it cannot remove a cord. Selected procedures may release or divide the tight tissue. Surgery removes affected tissue and may be considered when the contracture interferes with washing, dressing, placing the hand flat or working.

Arrange an assessment with a hand or orthopaedic clinician if a finger is becoming harder to straighten. Bring examples of tasks that have changed and mention previous hand procedures, diabetes, medicines and any numbness. Follow the agreed activity and therapy plan after treatment; exercises are usually tailored to protect healing while preserving useful movement. Explore [Hand Therapy](/treatments/physiotherapy-and-rehabilitation/hand-therapy/) and [Dupuytren's Surgery](/treatments/reconstructive-orthopedic-surgery/dupuytren-surgery/) for more detail.

Seek prompt medical assessment for rapidly worsening finger position, a new painful lump, marked swelling, skin breakdown, loss of sensation, unusual colour or a cold finger. After a procedure, contact the treating team for increasing redness, drainage, fever, severe pain or a sudden loss of movement. Read more about [Dupuytren's Contracture](/conditions/dupuytren-contracture/).

Ask which fingers and joints are involved, whether observation is reasonable, what functional change would favour a procedure, and how therapy would fit the plan. You can also ask about expected movement, wound care, recurrence, recovery tasks and signs that need urgent review.