Ace Physiotherapy and Sports in Singapore
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ACE PHYSIO SPORTS
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Duprytren's Contracture
What is a Dupuytren’s contracture?
Dupuytren's contracture is a progressive condition that affects the hands and fingers. It begins with a thickening of the tissue beneath the skin on the palm. Over time, this thickened tissue can form cords that pull the fingers inward toward the palm, limiting the ability to fully straighten them. The ring finger is usually the first affected, followed by the little finger and, in some cases, the middle finger. This can interfere with everyday tasks such as dressing, writing, or gripping objects. The condition tends to develop slowly, often progressing over several months or even years.
What can cause a Dupuytren’s contracture?
In most cases of Dupuytren’s contracture, the exact cause is unknown. However, the condition tends to run in families and is more common in people of Northern European descent. It is also more frequently seen in individuals with diabetes, epilepsy, or alcohol dependence—though many people with Dupuytren’s contracture have none of these conditions. Men over the age of forty are more commonly affected, although the reason for this remains unclear. The condition is not linked to specific occupations, manual labour, vibrating tools, or workplace environments. That said, in some cases, a previous hand injury that has not healed properly may contribute to the development of Dupuytren’s contracture.
What are the symptoms of a Dupuytren’s contracture?
Dupuytren's contracture is typically not painful, but the primary concern is loss of hand function. As one or more fingers begin to contract, you may find it increasingly difficult to use your hand effectively, which can interfere with daily activities such as dressing, writing, or gripping objects. Early signs often include small lumps or dimples in the palm, which may feel firm and cause the skin to appear puckered. As the condition progresses, the inability to fully extend the fingers can lead to difficulty performing even simple movements. Other symptoms of Dupuytren’s contracture may include:
- Thickened cords of tissue under the skin of the palm
- Tightness or pulling sensation in the hand
- Reduced grip strength
- Finger stiffness, especially in the morning
- Gradual worsening of finger flexibility over time
In some cases, individuals with Dupuytren’s contracture may also develop thickened tissue in other areas of the body. This can occur over the knuckles (Garrod’s pads), on the soles of the feet (Ledderhose disease), or in the penis (Peyronie’s disease). These related conditions are caused by similar fibrous tissue changes beneath the skin.
What should I do if I have a Dupuytren’s contracture?
If you notice any of the symptoms mentioned above, it’s important to seek medical advice as early as possible. A doctor or hand specialist can assess the affected area and provide an accurate diagnosis. In more severe cases of Dupuytren’s contracture, surgery may be recommended to help restore hand function.
What shouldn’t I do if I have a Dupuytren’s contracture?
If you’re struggling to carry out everyday tasks that once felt simple, and you notice signs of Dupuytren’s contracture, it’s important not to ignore the symptoms. Left untreated, the condition can worsen over time, making it harder to maintain an active and independent lifestyle. Even if the condition is mild and surgery isn't required, starting a physiotherapy programme can be highly beneficial. Physiotherapy helps maintain your hand’s range of motion, reduce stiffness, and strengthen surrounding muscles to support function and slow progression.
Following surgery for Dupuytren’s contracture, starting a personalised physiotherapy programme is essential to restore hand function and minimise the risk of post-operative complications. Physiotherapy will focus on gradually increasing your range of motion and strength through targeted exercises, while also helping to manage swelling and pain using techniques such as cryotherapy (ice) and compression. Scar care is also a vital part of rehabilitation. Your physiotherapist will help promote healthy scar healing and mobility using electrotherapy and friction massage techniques. Other physiotherapy treatments may include:
- Manual therapy to improve joint and soft tissue mobility
- Splinting to support finger positioning and prevent recurrence
- Functional retraining to restore grip strength and coordination
- Ultrasound therapy to aid tissue healing
- Patient education on hand care, activity pacing, and return-to-function goals
Can a Dupuytren’s contracture in the hand have any long-term effects?
If Dupuytren’s contracture is left untreated, the condition will likely progress, potentially leading to long-term complications such as joint stiffness, reduced hand function, and permanent finger deformities. While surgery is often effective in restoring movement, there may be temporary side effects from the procedure, such as mild nerve irritation or blood vessel trauma. These issues usually resolve within a few weeks. Engaging in a structured physiotherapy programme after surgery plays a crucial role in reducing the risk of lasting complications. It supports recovery by promoting mobility, managing swelling and pain, improving scar healing, and helping you regain full function of your hand.
To arrange an appointment, please call +65 81535374 or visit acephysiosports.com.
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