Dupuytren’s contracture is a progressive hand condition that causes one or more fingers to gradually bend toward the palm, making it difficult to fully straighten the hand. The condition develops due to thickening and tightening of tissue beneath the skin of the palm, known as the fascia.

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Over time, this thickened tissue can form firm cords that pull the fingers inward, restricting movement and affecting everyday hand function. Although Dupuytren’s contracture is not usually painful, it can interfere with tasks such as gripping objects, placing the hand flat on surfaces or putting hands into pockets or gloves.

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The condition most commonly affects the ring and little fingers, though it can also involve the thumb and other fingers. Dupuytren’s contracture often progresses slowly over several years and may affect one or both hands.

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What Are the Symptoms of Dupuytren’s Contracture?

 

Symptoms usually develop gradually and may become more noticeable over time.

 

Lumps or Nodules in the Palm

The first sign is often a small firm lump beneath the skin of the palm. These nodules may initially feel tender before becoming painless.

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Thickened Cords Beneath the Skin

As the condition progresses, thickened cords of tissue may form and extend from the palm into the fingers.

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Fingers Curling Toward the Palm

The affected fingers may gradually bend inward, making it difficult to fully straighten them.

 

Reduced Hand Function

Patients may experience difficulty:

• shaking hands

• gripping larger objects

• placing the hand flat on a table

• wearing gloves comfortably

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The condition is typically painless, but the loss of movement can become increasingly restrictive.

 

When Should You See a Hand Specialist?

 

Early assessment is important if you notice:

• thickening in the palm

• finger tightening

• reduced finger extension

• difficulty laying your hand flat

 

Prompt specialist review can help monitor progression and determine the most appropriate timing for treatment.

 

At Midland Hand Clinic, we provide expert diagnosis and personalised treatment plans for Dupuytren’s contracture and other hand conditions affecting movement and function.

 

How Is Dupuytren’s Contracture Diagnosed?

 

Dupuytren’s contracture is usually diagnosed during a clinical consultation and physical examination.

 

Your specialist will:

• assess the thickened tissue and cords in the palm

• evaluate finger movement and flexibility

• test the hand’s ability to lie flat on a surface

 

In most cases, scans or imaging are not required to confirm the diagnosis.

 

How Is Dupuytren’s Contracture Treated?

 

Treatment depends on:

• the severity of finger contracture

• how quickly the condition is progressing

• the level of functional limitation

 

The goal of treatment is to release the contracted tissue, improve finger movement and restore hand function.

 

Needle Fasciotomy

 

Needle fasciotomy is a minimally invasive procedure used to divide the cords beneath the skin using a fine needle.

 

This treatment:

• is performed under local anaesthetic

• involves minimal incisions

• allows quicker recovery in suitable patients

 

It can significantly improve finger movement and hand function.

 

Injection Treatment

 

In some cases, an enzyme injection may be used to weaken the Dupuytren’s cord before manipulation of the finger.

 

This treatment can help release the contracture and improve movement without traditional surgery.

 

Surgical Fasciectomy

 

For more advanced or severe cases, surgical fasciectomy may be recommended.

 

This procedure involves carefully removing the diseased tissue responsible for the finger contracture. Surgery aims to:

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• improve finger extension

• restore hand function

• reduce long-term restriction

 

The most appropriate treatment option will depend on the extent of the condition and individual patient needs.

 

Recovery After Treatment

 

Recovery times vary depending on the type of treatment performed and the severity of the contracture.

 

Following treatment or surgery, some patients may benefit from:

• hand therapy

• splinting

• rehabilitation exercises

 

These can help improve flexibility, strength and long-term functional outcomes.

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Expert Dupuytren’s Contracture Treatment in Birmingham & Solihull

 

If you are concerned about thickening in the palm or fingers beginning to curl inward, specialist assessment can help identify the most effective treatment options before the condition progresses further.

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Mr G Shyamalan is an experienced consultant hand surgeon specialising in the treatment of Dupuytren’s contracture and other hand conditions across Birmingham, Solihull, Sutton Coldfield and Warwickshire.

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Contact Midland Hand Clinic today to arrange your private consultation and discuss the best treatment plan for restoring comfortable hand function.