Dupuytren's Contracture

What is Dupuytren’s contracture?

Dupuytren’s contracture occurs when one or more fingers uncontrollably curl toward your palm. In most cases, the condition develops gradually as tissues (fascia) underneath the skin thicken and tighten. The tightening pulls on the affected fingers, forcing them to bend.

This condition most often affects your ring and small fingers, but it can involve any fingers. You may also develop contractures in both hands.

What symptoms develop due to Dupuytren’s contracture?

Bent fingers are the primary symptom, but they’re not the only one. The first signs are small lumps of tissue under the skin in your palm. As the fascia progressively tightens, the skin covering your palm may take on a pitted appearance.

Eventually, the bands of fascia turn into thick cords that hold one or more fingers in a bent position. At this stage, the cords become noticeable and may look like tendons.

In the advanced stage, you have a hard time straightening your fingers. You may not be able to grasp objects or perform simple activities like using a keyboard.

Dupuytren’s contracture isn’t usually painful unless you engage in an activity that puts pressure on the nodules.

When should I seek treatment for Dupuytren’s contracture?

The disease usually progresses slowly, causing mild symptoms for years. During this time, most people don’t need treatment.  

Once you notice thickened cords or it gets hard to straighten your fingers, it’s important to have the team at Nevada Orthopedic & Spine Center examine your hand. They can verify your diagnosis, monitor the contractures, and recommend when to start treatment.

How is Dupuytren’s contracture treated?

Treatment for Dupuytren’s contracture begins with nonsurgical therapies such as steroid injections. In addition to reducing inflammation, steroids may slow down the progressive tightening.

As the contracture worsens, you may need needling or an enzyme injection to release the tissue cords. Needling involves inserting a needle and using it to break the cord.

If your provider injects an enzyme, the medication softens and weakens the cord. Then your provider manipulates the tissues to break the cord and straighten your fingers.

In severe cases, your provider may perform surgery to cut the cord or to remove the fascia causing the contracture. 

If you notice nodules in your palm or your fingers start to bend, call Nevada Orthopedic & Spine Center or schedule an appointment online today.