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Straighten Out Your Fingers: 5 Exercises for Dupuytren's Contracture

Updated: Jan 19, 2023


A contracture of the underlying tissue in the palm of the hand is known as Dupuytren's disease. Due to the thickening of the affected tissue and the formation of cords, the affected digits may eventually curl in toward the palm. Due to this, it may be difficult to straighten the afflicted fingers, which might have a negative impact on hand function.


As a progressive ailment, Dupuytren's contracture often worsens with time. Although men over the age of 50 make up the majority of those diagnosed, women and people of all ages are not immune.


Dupuytren's contracture likely has several causes, including hereditary and environmental influences, but the former is more likely to be at play. Smokers, heavy drinkers, those with diabetes, and those with epilepsy have all been linked to an increased risk of developing the illness. North Europeans have an increased risk as well.


Dupuytren's contracture can be treated in a number of different ways. Hand splints, physiotherapy, and injections of enzyme medicines can all be used to alleviate contractures without resorting to surgery. Both fasciectomy and dermofasciectomy, in which both the fascia and the skin covering it are cut away, are possible surgical approaches. The degree of your contracture and your specific requirements will determine the best course of treatment for you.


Dupuytren's contracture is sometimes treatable without resorting to surgery. The need for surgery to restore hand function, however, may arise in more serious situations. Identifying the optimal treatment plan requires close collaboration with a healthcare provider.


Dupuytren's contracture is manageable and hand function can be preserved by a combination of therapy and self-care. Among these are:

Flexibility training. Exercising the fingers gently might help keep them mobile.

Hand braces. A hand splint can be used to prevent the inward bending of the afflicted fingers.

Ergonomic methods. Reducing the strain on the hand and preventing the problem from developing can be accomplished by employing suitable ergonomic practises when conducting hand-intensive chores like typing or using a mouse.

Correct skin care. It is possible to avoid cracking and irritation of the skin on the palm of the hand by keeping it well hydrated and protected.


This blog post's contents are intended solely for educational reasons. Do not use this information in place of a doctor's visit, tests, or prescribed medication. If you want advice tailored to your unique situation, talk to your doctor.


Dupuytren's contracture, in conclusion, is a disorder affecting the subcutaneous tissue of the palm of the hand. Due to the thickening of the affected tissue and the formation of cords, the affected digits may eventually curl in toward the palm. Hand splints, physical therapy, and enzyme injections are examples of non-invasive treatments, whereas fasciectomy, and dermofasciectomy are examples of invasive surgical procedures. Identifying the optimal treatment plan requires close collaboration with a healthcare provider. Dupuytren's contracture can be managed and hand function maintained with the aid of therapy as well as stretching exercises, hand splints, ergonomic approaches, and correct skin care.

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