Dupuytren's contracture

Dupuytren's Contracture is a slow-developing hand deformity in which connective tissue within the hand thickens, becoming similar to scar tissue. This thick tissue pulls at tendons of the hand causing the fingers and/or thumb to curl inwards, which is called a contracture. This condition impairs the range of motion of the fingers, and is associated with difficulty in, or inability to, straighten the fingers.  

symptoms

  • Skin of the palm begins to thicken
  • Nodules (lumps) begin to form in the palm
    • May be tender but likely not painful
  • Difficulty straightening fingers

causes

  • Genetics (most common)
  • Prior injury (less common)

treatment

  • Corticosteroid injections
  • Enzyme injections
  • Needle aponeurotomy
  • Splints
  • Physiotherapy (pre or post-surgery)
  • Surgery 

how does physiotherapy help?

Physiotherapy can be beneficial at the developing stages of Dupuytren's Contracture or after surgery to aide in recovery and prevent reccurrence. In the early stages of Dupuytren's Contracture, physiotherapy modalities such as ultrasound, heat, and splinting, can be used to prevent the development of adhesions. In severe cases, individuals may decide to undergo surgery. After which, physiotherapy is helpful in preventing the reformation of adhesions and fascia thickening. Additionally, customized exercise and stretching programs can be developed to preserve the range of motion of the hand (either pre or post-surgery).