If you have Dupuytren contracture, you may notice that your fingers start to get knobby and hard to move. This can make it difficult to do things like tie your shoes or hold a utensil. If you experience symptoms of Dupuytren’s contracture, it’s important to see a doctor to find out what is causing them and see if there is anything that can be done to treat them.
What is Dupuytren Contracture?
Dupuytren’s contracture is a condition in which the skin below the fingers and toes becomes tight and hard. The condition is caused by a lack of blood flow to the tissues below the affected area, which can lead to tissue damage and decreased movement. There is no known cure for Dupuytren contracture, but treatment typically includes counseling and physical therapy.
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Causes
There is no one specific cause of Dupuytren contracture, but it is likely caused by a combination of factors including genetic disposition, muscle imbalance, and trauma. Genetics play a role in about 60-80% of cases, while muscle imbalance and trauma account for around 15-25% and 5-10%, respectively.
Dupuytren contracture usually develops gradually over time as the fibrous tissue thickens and interlocks into small knots. The condition is often intermittent and unpredictable, meaning that one day someone may have no symptoms at all and the next day they may experience intense pain and swelling.
The most common symptom is pain or tenderness in the hand or wrist area. Other common symptoms include:
- Swelling (especially around the fingers)
- Redness
- Thinning skin due to loss of blood supply
- Tenderness on pressure (akin to giving yourself a “thumb squeeze” test)
- Difficulty moving the hand or fingers
- Weak grip strength
Symptoms of Dupuytren Contracture
Dupuytren’s contracture is a condition in which the skin becomes rigid and pulls away from the muscle beneath it. This can cause pain, difficulty moving the limb, and even deformity. There is no one definitive cause, but it can occur as a result of various factors, including genetics and age. Some common symptoms include pain and swelling around the affected joint, stiffness or tightness in the limb and a decrease in range of motion. Treatment typically includes stretching exercises and wearing supportive clothing. If the condition is severe, surgery may be necessary to remove the affected area of the skin.
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Treatment
Dupuytren contracture is a condition that affects the skin and connective tissue on one or more fingers. This disorder is caused by gradual shrinkage of the tissue in the fingers due to fibrosis, or excess growth of connective tissue. There are many different causes of Dupuytren contracture, including general wear and tear, genetics, and injury.
There is no known cure for Dupuytren contracture, but treatments can help improve symptoms. Treatment typically includes rest, ice therapy, compression garments, and surgery if necessary. Some people may also require medication to reduce inflammation or pain.