Dupuytren’s Disease

What is a Dupuytren’s disease?

Dupuytren’s disease (also known as Dupuytren’s contracture) is a common condition caused by an abnormal thickening of the tissues in the palm of the hand.

This thickened tissue may develop into a hard lump (nodule) which may form cords. Over time, this may cause one or more of your fingers to curl (contract) into your palm and you will not be able to straighten your fingers.

Some people with Dupuytren’s disease, may have some thickened tissue under the skin in other parts of their body. For example, a thickening on the knuckles, on the soles of the feet (Ledderhose Disease), or on the penis (Peyronies’ Disease).

What causes Dupuytren’s disease?

The reason why this tissue becomes thickened is not known. There may be a genetic factor as it often runs in some families. It is more common in people with diabetes, epilepsy, and those with alcohol dependence. However, most people with Dupuytren’s disease do not have any of these other conditions.

In some cases, it is thought that an injury to the hand may trigger the condition to start in someone who is genetically prone to develop the condition. However, for most people, there is no known cause.

Who develops a Dupuytren’s contracture?

This condition usually affects people in their middle age or older and is much more common in men than women.

Do I need treatment?

In many cases, people with a Dupuytren’s contracture do not need treatment. For many people the condition is mild and causes little problem with using the hand. In this case, no treatment is usually advised. If the contracture is causing the finger to get in the way when completing daily tasks/activities, then surgery may be recommended.

How do I know if the contracture has got worse?

If you are able to put the palm of your hand flat on a table, no treatment is needed. If the hand cannot be placed completely flat and there is a space between the table and the hand, you may need further treatment. This is called the ‘Table top test’.

Contact Details:

Please contact Hand Therapy if you have any concerns or questions, or if your splint is rubbing or is uncomfortable.

Contact details are:

University Hospital of North Tees Hospital

Hand Therapy

1^st Floor

North Wing

Telephone: 01429 522 471

Hartlepool Hospital

Physiotherapy Outpatients Department

Ground Floor

Comments, concerns, compliments or complaints

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Telephone: 01642 624719

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