Dupuytren's contracture

Overview

Thick cords form under the palm skin and slowly pull fingers into a bent position, most often the ring and little fingers.

It isn't usually painful and progresses over years.

Symptoms

Common signs:

• Lump or cord in the palm
• Stiff fingers or hands

Less common

• Bent fingers

When to get medical care

Causes

Genes.

Does it spread or run in families?

• It isn't contagious. You can't catch it from someone else.

Who is more likely to get it

• Northern European ancestry
• Diabetes

Diagnosis

A clinician examines the hand.

The exam

Tabletop test.

Treatment

Watch it.

Self-care

• Check if you can lay your hand flat
• Check monthly whether you can lay your hand flat on a table
• Use padded gloves for gripping tools

Which doctor treats this

• Start with your primary care provider (family doctor or internist).
• They may send you to an orthopedist (bone and joint doctor).

Children, pregnancy, and older adults

• Men over 50 of Northern European ancestry: Most common.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

• If you're pregnant or planning to be, tell your prenatal provider about this condition.
• Don't start or stop any medicine on your own. Some are safe in pregnancy and some need to be changed.
• Ask before taking any pain reliever. The FDA advises avoiding ibuprofen and naproxen after 20 weeks unless your doctor says to.
• Breastfeeding: Most medicines are fine, but ask. The NIH LactMed database lists what's known about each one.

Outlook

Treatable.

Treatments work well but it can come back.

Getting ready for your visit

Bring a list of your symptoms and medicines.

Questions to ask

• Is a needle treatment or surgery better for me?

Research studies

Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.

Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on Dupuytren's contracture