Hand Problems

Dupuytren's contracture

In some people, a progressive flexion contracture of the fingers in the palm occurs. This may be what is known as Dupuytren's contracture. When this happens, usually over the course of several years, the fingers cannot be completely straightened. Sometimes this condition may not affect your hand function in any way, but other times it may be a nuisance affecting grip and daily activities. This may or may not have been present in older family members. While there is no known cause for this condition, there are a variety of treatment options, and your hand surgeon will help you determine which is best for you. Unfortunately, Dupuytren's has a very high recurrence rate, no matter what the treatment you choose. Some of the options are:

• Splinting / Rest


• Injection of medication to dissolve the contracting tissue


• Surgery to cut out the contracting scar tissue