Dupuytren's contracture

Check if you have Dupuytren's contracture

Dupuytren's contracture mainly affects the ring and little fingers. You can have it in both hands at the same time.

It tends to get slowly worse over many months or years. Treatment can't usually help in the early stages.

See a GP if 1 or more of your fingers are bent and:

• you can't put your hand down flat
• you're having difficulty with daily activities

You'll probably be offered treatment. Your GP may refer you to a surgeon to discuss your options.

Treatments for Dupuytren's contracture

Speak to a surgeon about the options, what the benefits and risks are, and what to expect afterwards.

Your finger may not be completely straight after treatment, and might not be as strong and flexible as it used to be.

The contracture could also come back after a few years.

There are 3 main types of treatment.

Causes and preventing Dupuytren's contracture

Dupuytren's contracture happens when the tissue under the skin near your fingers becomes thicker and less flexible.

The exact cause is unknown, but it's been linked to:

• having a family history of the condition
• smoking
• drinking lots of alcohol
• having diabetes or epilepsy

It's not known if you can prevent it or stop it coming back.