Dupuytren’s Contracture – What Is It and How Does It Affect Your Hands?
Dupuytren’s Contracture is a condition that affects the tendons in the hands, gradually causing the tissue in the palm to thicken and tighten, leading to limited finger mobility. This condition most often occurs in older adults but can also affect younger individuals. It is characterized by the formation of thick, fibrous bands in the palms that pull the fingers inward toward the center of the hand, making normal hand function difficult.
Although Dupuytren’s Contracture does not always cause pain, limited mobility can significantly impact daily activities such as holding objects, writing, eating, and performing other tasks that require normal hand flexibility. The condition is most common in people over the age of 50 and tends to progress slowly over the years.
At first, the disease may go unnoticed, but as it develops, the fingers can become stiff and increasingly difficult to straighten, which can lead to frustration and a reduced quality of life. Since it can affect the ability to perform basic tasks, it is very important to recognize the symptoms early and begin appropriate treatment.
Symptoms of Dupuytren’s Contracture – How to Recognize This Condition
Dupuytren’s contracture usually develops gradually, and its symptoms can vary depending on the stage of the condition. In the early stages, the disease may be almost unnoticeable, but over time, the symptoms become more pronounced and can significantly impact your ability to use your hands. Here are the key signs to pay attention to:
Thickening and Nodules in the Palms
One of the first signs of Dupuytren’s contracture is the appearance of small nodules or thickened areas in the palm, typically in the area between the fingers. These thickened spots are formed from fibrous tissue that develops as the condition progresses. The nodules may be tender to the touch, but not always painful.
Fingers Bending Inward
As the disease advances, the thickened bands of fibrous tissue can begin pulling the fingers toward the palm, leading to a gradual loss of the ability to straighten them. This inward bending becomes more pronounced over time and can interfere with holding objects or performing everyday tasks.
Limited Finger Mobility
One of the key symptoms is a loss of finger flexibility. Initially, the restriction may be subtle, but as it worsens, it becomes increasingly difficult to extend the fingers or make basic movements such as grasping or touching objects.
Discomfort and Pain
While Dupuytren’s contracture often does not cause pain in its early stages, some individuals may experience discomfort in the palm or fingers, especially during movement or when the hand is under strain. In some cases, pain may be present, particularly if the tendons or skin are under tension.
Progressive Worsening
Symptoms typically develop slowly, and the condition may deteriorate over months or years. In the beginning, the thickening in the palms may be minimal, but it can eventually lead to significant tightening and serious hand function issues.
Bilateral Nature of the Disease
Although Dupuytren’s contracture usually affects one hand, it can often impact both hands, sometimes at different stages. In rare cases, similar tissue changes may also be observed in the toes.
If you notice any of these symptoms, it is important to consult a medical professional for proper diagnosis and to explore early treatment options.
What Causes Dupuytren’s Contracture?
Dupuytren’s contracture is a chronic condition of the connective tissue in the hand, but its exact cause is still not completely understood. However, several factors are known to contribute to its development. Below are the most common causes and risk factors that increase the likelihood of this condition.
Genetic Predisposition
One of the main factors for developing Dupuytren’s contracture is an inherited tendency toward the disease. Research shows that the condition occurs more frequently in people with a family history of it. Genetic predisposition may mean increased sensitivity of the connective tissue to changes that lead to the formation of thickened fibrous bands in the palm.
Age and Gender
Dupuytren’s contracture most commonly affects individuals over the age of 40, with the risk increasing significantly with age. Men are more prone to this condition than women, at a ratio of approximately 3:1. When symptoms do appear in women, they tend to progress more slowly and are usually less pronounced.
Association With Certain Medical Conditions
Certain health conditions can increase the risk of developing Dupuytren’s contracture, including:
Diabetes – Individuals with diabetes are at greater risk due to changes in connective tissue caused by elevated blood sugar levels.
Epilepsy – Studies have shown a higher occurrence in people undergoing long-term epilepsy treatment, although the exact mechanism remains unclear.
Liver Disease – The connection between liver disease and Dupuytren’s contracture may stem from metabolic disorders affecting the connective tissue.
Smoking and Alcohol Consumption
There is evidence that individuals who smoke and frequently consume alcohol are at greater risk of developing Dupuytren’s contracture. Smoking affects blood circulation and may contribute to changes in connective tissue, while alcohol can lead to metabolic changes that worsen connective tissue health.
Repeated Microtrauma and Mechanical Stress
Although it has not been conclusively proven that certain jobs or activities directly cause Dupuytren’s contracture, there is a connection between physical work that involves constant hand strain and the development of the condition. Jobs involving repetitive gripping of tools, vibrations, or continuous hand movements may accelerate disease progression.
Autoimmune and Inflammatory Processes
Some scientists believe that Dupuytren’s contracture may result from an autoimmune response, where the immune system mistakenly attacks the body’s own connective tissue, leading to the formation of thickened bands and contractures.
Treatment of Dupuytren’s Contracture at Fizio In Locco Center
Dupuytren’s contracture can seriously affect hand function, but with timely treatments and the right approach, it is possible to slow disease progression and improve hand mobility. At Fizio and Estetik Center In Locco, we specialize in the treatment and rehabilitation of this condition, using state-of-the-art techniques and personalized care for each patient. Our goal is to help patients maintain maximum hand mobility, reduce pain and discomfort, and improve quality of life.
Here is an overview of the treatments we offer at our center:
Physiotherapy and Targeted Treatments
Physiotherapy is the cornerstone of Dupuytren’s contracture treatment. Our team of experts provides individualized physiotherapy sessions involving various stretching and strengthening techniques to improve hand flexibility and strength. Through specialized exercises, we focus on reducing fibrous tissue thickening and preventing symptom worsening.
Manual Therapy and Massages
Manual therapy is an effective treatment for Dupuytren’s contracture that involves manipulating soft tissues to improve finger mobility and reduce tension in the palms. Massages, especially those targeting the thickened areas of the palm, help soften fibrous tissue and ease finger movement. These techniques also enhance circulation, contributing to recovery.
Ultrasound Therapy
Ultrasound therapy uses high-frequency sound waves to penetrate deeper layers of skin and connective tissue. This treatment helps reduce pain, improve circulation, and decrease inflammation. Ultrasound can also assist in breaking down the thickened tissue that develops during Dupuytren’s contracture, making it easier to manage.
Electrotherapy and Other Modern Methods
Electrotherapy employs electrical impulses to stimulate muscles and alleviate pain. Through electrotherapy, we can reduce pain, boost circulation, and speed up recovery. This therapy is often combined with physiotherapy and massages for a faster, more effective healing process.
Magnetotherapy uses pulsating magnetic fields to stimulate circulation and promote tissue regeneration, helping to reduce pain and inflammation associated with Dupuytren’s contracture.
Laser therapy applies low-energy lasers that penetrate tissues to accelerate recovery, reduce pain, and improve flexibility in affected areas.
Shockwave therapy utilizes acoustic waves to stimulate tissue, enhance blood flow, and break down scar tissue, thereby improving mobility and decreasing contracture symptoms.
Kinesiotherapy – Specialized Exercises
Kinesiotherapy is a tailored treatment that uses body movements to restore hand function and mobility. Our team designs specialized exercises targeting the muscles and tendons of the hand and fingers, helping reduce tension and improve flexibility. Regular supervised exercises can significantly ease symptoms and slow disease progression.
Patient Counseling and Education
Treatment of Dupuytren’s contracture goes beyond therapies alone. At Fizio and Estetik Center In Locco, we also provide patient education on proper exercises, posture, and lifestyle habits that can help prevent further complications. You will learn how to maintain hand health properly, reduce strain, and use techniques that alleviate symptoms and improve daily hand functionality.
Why Choose Fizio and Estetik Center In Locco?
We use the latest equipment and techniques, and every patient receives an individualized treatment plan tailored to their specific needs. Additionally, we focus on creating long-term solutions that will enable you to live with better hand health and increased mobility.
Rehabilitation After Dupuytren’s Contracture Treatment – The Importance of Physiotherapy
Dupuytren’s contracture can significantly impact hand functionality, making everyday activities such as gripping, writing, or handling objects difficult. Whether a patient has undergone conservative treatment or surgical intervention, rehabilitation and physiotherapy are key parts of the recovery process. This helps restore strength, flexibility, and fine motor skills of the hand, reducing the risk of contracture recurrence.
At Fizio and Estetik Center In Locco, we offer a comprehensive rehabilitation program tailored to each patient, utilizing the most advanced physiotherapy methods.
Why is physiotherapy crucial after Dupuytren’s contracture treatment?
Rehabilitation is crucial to:
✔ Prevent the recurrence of contracture
✔ Restore full functionality of the fingers and hand
✔ Strengthen the hand muscles and increase tendon elasticity
✔ Reduce swelling and speed up the healing process
✔ Improve movement coordination and fine motor skills
Without proper rehabilitation, there is a higher risk that movement limitations will return, even after successful treatment.
Phases of Rehabilitation After Treatment for Dupuytren’s Contracture
Early Post-Treatment Recovery (First Few Days up to 2 Weeks)
In the initial days after the procedure (whether surgery or a minimally invasive treatment), the focus is on:
Reducing pain and swelling (using cryotherapy – cold compresses)
Maintaining gentle movement of the hand to prevent stiffness
Using protective splints (if recommended)
During this phase, it is very important for the patient to follow the physiotherapist’s instructions to achieve the fastest possible recovery.
Improving Mobility and Tissue Elasticity (2 to 6 Weeks)
After the initial recovery, the focus shifts to improving mobility and preventing the formation of new fibrous tissue that could lead to recurrence of the contracture.
During this period, we perform:
✔ Stretching exercises – gradually increasing tendon flexibility and reducing stiffness
✔ Manual therapy and massage – improving circulation and reducing tissue tension
✔ Heat therapy – warming the tissue before exercises to enhance stretching and elasticity
✔ Light strengthening exercises – to improve hand muscle function
These methods help patients regain finger functionality and gradually return to normal activities.
Strengthening and Return to Full Functionality (6 Weeks and Beyond)
Once basic mobility is restored, the focus moves to strengthening the hand muscles and fine motor skills.
In this phase, we include:
✔ Advanced strength and endurance exercises – for long-term hand function improvement
✔ Muscle electrostimulation – if additional strengthening of weakened muscles is needed
✔ Functional exercises – to help patients regain the ability to perform daily tasks
✔ Coordination and fine motor skill exercises – especially important for patients engaged in precise manual work
These approaches enable patients to regain confidence in using their hand and help prevent future complications.
Prevention of Dupuytren’s Contracture – How to Prevent the Onset of the Disease?
Dupuytren’s contracture is a chronic condition that gradually limits finger mobility and can significantly hinder daily activities. Although there is no guaranteed way to completely prevent its onset, certain measures can reduce the risk of developing the disease and slow its progression.
Preventive Measures – How to Maintain Healthy Hands?
Regular stretching and flexibility exercises
One of the most important preventive steps is regularly performing exercises that improve the elasticity of the tendons and muscles of the hand. Recommended exercises include:
Gently pulling the fingers backward to increase mobility.
The “prayer position” exercise, where palms are pressed together at chest height with gentle pressure.
Squeezing and opening the hand to strengthen muscles and improve finger flexibility.
Using elastic bands to enhance tendon strength.
These exercises should be done daily, especially if there is a genetic predisposition or if you perform tasks that place extra strain on your hands.
Maintaining healthy circulation in the hands
Good circulation helps preserve the elasticity of connective tissue and reduces the risk of contracture development. Helpful measures include:
Regular palm massages to improve blood flow and reduce tendon tension.
Alternating soaking hands in warm and cold water to stimulate circulation.
Avoiding prolonged gripping of objects, especially for people who frequently use tools or do manual labor.
Reducing lifestyle-related risk factors
Lifestyle changes can contribute to prevention:
Reducing or avoiding alcohol consumption and quitting smoking to improve circulation and reduce connective tissue damage.
Maintaining an optimal body weight and managing diabetes to minimize metabolic disturbances that may contribute to disease development.
Avoiding prolonged hand strain and taking breaks during manual activities.
While Dupuytren’s contracture cannot always be completely prevented, regular hand care, stretching, massage, and healthy habits can significantly lower the risk and preserve hand functionality. If you notice early symptoms, it is important to consult specialists promptly to prevent further disease progression and maintain full hand mobility.