Dupuytren's contracture is a common disease of the hand. The first thing people with Dupuytren's disease notice is the presence of lumps in the palm. The skin and tissue begin to feel dense and hard. Although Dupuytren's is progressive, it is not possible to say how quickly the disease may develop. It is also difficult to predict the severity of the disease. One finger or all of the fingers could become involved. Eventually this process pulls the fingers down toward the palm. The tissues become so tight it may become difficult to straighten the fingers. If uncorrected, the fingers develop severe stiffness and deformity results.

No one knows what causes Dupuytren's contracture. It seems to run in families. It is more often found in middle-aged men. There seems to be a connection to other diseases such as alcoholism and epilepsy. There is a similar disease found in the bottom of the feet (called Lederhose's disease) and the penis (called Peyrone's disease).

Usually Dupuytren's disease is not painful. Formations of the thick, scar-like contractures eventually interfere with the movement and function of the hand. It is usually at this point that a person with this disorder will seek medical attention.

Dupuytren's contractures can be corrected by surgery. Keep in mind that the rate of disease progression may help you decide when and if surgery is right for you.

See your healthcare provider if you:
* see dimples in your palm when you lift your fingers up,
* feel lumps or thickening in your palm, or
* cannot stretch your palm flat out on a table.

Your doctor will monitor your disease with you. If your disease has a rapid progression with clear changes in function, it is better to not postpone surgery.

The surgeon will cut away the diseased tissue. It is important to have hand therapy for one to two months after surgery to assist with healing and maximize return of function. You will wear a splint on your hand at night for 3 to 4 months. You will learn exercises to keep your hand moving. Schedule your surgery when you will have time to go to therapy weekly and perform the prescribed exercises a few times a day.

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