Dupuytren’s Contracture

Dupuytren’s contracture symptoms typically develop gradually and may include:

• Small, firm nodules in your palm that may be tender to touch
• Thickened skin on your palm that feels like leather
• Cord-like bands of tissue extending from your palm into your fingers
• Inability to straighten one or more fingers, especially the ring and pinky fingers
• Difficulty gripping large objects or placing your hand flat on surfaces
• Puckering or dimpling of the skin on your palm

The condition usually affects one hand more than the other, though it can occur in both hands. Symptoms may progress slowly over years or advance more rapidly in some patients.

The exact cause of Dupuytren’s contracture isn’t fully understood, but research suggests a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Family history is the strongest risk factor—you’re more likely to develop the condition if relatives have had it.

Other risk factors include:

• Age: Most common in people over 50
• Gender: Men are affected more often than women
• Northern European ancestry: Particularly Scandinavian, Irish, or Scottish heritage
• Diabetes: People with diabetes have an increased risk
• Smoking and alcohol use: May contribute to progression
• Previous hand trauma: Though this connection is debated

The condition involves the abnormal growth of collagen, a protein that helps form connective tissue. This excess collagen forms the characteristic nodules and cords that pull your fingers into contracted positions.

Our hand specialists at Synergy Health Partners can typically diagnose Dupuytren’s contracture through a comprehensive physical examination. During your appointment, we’ll assess your hand function and examine the characteristic signs of the condition.

The diagnostic process includes:

• Visual inspection of nodules, cords, and skin changes in your palm
• Tabletop test: Assessing whether you can lay your hand flat on a surface
• Range of motion testing to measure finger flexibility and contracture severity
• Discussion of symptoms and how they impact your daily activities

In most cases, imaging studies like X-rays or MRI are not necessary for diagnosis. However, our specialists may order tests to rule out other conditions or to plan surgical treatment if needed.

You should schedule an appointment with one of our hand specialists if you notice:

• New nodules or lumps in your palm or fingers
• Difficulty straightening your fingers or placing your hand flat
• Progressive bending of your ring or pinky finger
• Interference with daily activities like gripping objects or shaking hands
• Rapid progression of symptoms over weeks or months

Early evaluation is important because treatment is often most effective when started before severe contractures develop. Our specialists can monitor the condition’s progress and recommend appropriate interventions to maintain your hand function and quality of life.