Dupuytren’s contracture is when the connective tissue in the palm thickens and tightens, causing fingers to bend and limiting hand function.

The cause is not clear, but it is believed to be linked to genetics and is more likely in people from Northern Europe.

Mostly men over 50, particularly those with Northern European heritage.

Signs include lumps in the palm, skin thickening, and fingers gradually bending towards the palm.

It is usually not painful, but some may feel discomfort in the affected area.

It is typically diagnosed through a physical check of the hand, looking at the fingers' appearance and movement.

Yes, it can impact one or both hands and generally worsens over time.

Yes, it can run in families.

Treatments range from watchful waiting to injections, needle aponeurotomy, enzyme treatments, and surgery.

Surgery is done when the contracture hinders hand use, usually when fingers can't straighten fully.

It is a minor procedure using a needle to break the tissue in the palm to help fingers straighten.

It’s a treatment involving an enzyme injection into the cord to dissolve the tissue and relieve the contracture.

Non-surgical methods can work well, especially for mild cases, but there may be a chance of returning symptoms.

Recovery varies from weeks to months, depending on surgery type and physical therapy needed.

Yes, it can come back no matter the treatment used.

If not treated, it may seriously affect hand function, but early action can help avoid major problems.

While changes can’t cure it, doing hand exercises may help keep function.

No cure exists, but treatments can help control symptoms and improve hand use.

Yes, it can cause stiffness and limit finger movement.

There’s a connection, but it's research ongoing. some proof shows that smoking and too much drinking might raise risk.

No clear prevention exists, but handling risk factors may lessen severity.

Massage won’t fix the issue but could ease some discomfort from tight tissues.

Stretching can help keep flexibility, but it’s wise to check with a doctor for tailored suggestions.

Long-term results differ: some keep good hand function with early treatment while others may see recurrence.

Yes, but they are different. Dupuytren’s is tightening under the skin, while arthritis affects the joints.

It can be linked with conditions like diabetes, epilepsy, and thyroid problems, though connections are not clear.

Physical therapy can help restore hand function after treatment or surgery.

It usually develops slowly, starting as a bump and forming cords that pull fingers towards the palm.

If not treated, it can lead to severe contractures that greatly affect hand function and quality of life.

Improvement is often seen in days or weeks after the injection.

It mainly affects hands but can sometimes relate to similar fibrotic conditions in feet (Ledderhose disease).

It is more frequent in men, especially those aged over 50.

Mild cases that don’t affect function may only need monitoring.

It generally doesn’t go away on its own and may get worse over time.

Repetitive tasks might make symptoms worse, so discussing activity levels with a doctor is best.

A hand surgeon or orthopedic specialist usually manages the condition.

Severity is often measured by how much fingers are contracted and how it affects hand function.

Cords are thick tissue bands under the skin that develop as the condition worsens, leading to finger contracture.

Splinting typically doesn’t stop progression but might help maintain motion after surgery.

If hand function is affected, it could impact jobs needing manual skills or grip strength.

Numbness isn’t usual but can happen if nerves are affected. are impacted by significant contracture.

Surgery usually helps improve finger straightening, but it does not stop recurrence.

There are no medications that can resolve it, but steroids and enzyme injections may aid in some situations.

Although a healthy lifestyle may not stop or fix the condition, it can enhance well-being and support recovery.

Regular check-ups are needed to track progression and discuss treatment choices.

Waiting to treat could lead to worse contracture, complicating future treatment.

Some people seek treatments like acupuncture or supplements, but there is no scientific proof of their effectiveness.

It is not usually seen as a work-related issue but may worsen with repetitive tasks.

No specific diets are proven to impact the condition, yet general good nutrition supports health.

Arrange an appointment with a healthcare professional skilled in hand issues for evaluation and possible treatment.