Dupuytren’s contracture, also known as Dupuytren’s disease, seems similar to trigger finger but has a different cause. In this condition, the fingers naturally curl toward the palm and can get stuck in that position. It most commonly affects the pinky and ring finger.
Diabetes may double the risk of Dupuytren’s.
This condition is caused by the thickening of the fascia, a layer of tissue underneath the skin. As this tissue thickens and stiffens, it pulls the fingers toward the palm.
Early in the progression of Dupuytren’s, you may feel lumps underneath the skin of the palm. As the fascia tightens, it may feel like there are thick cords underneath the palm. These cords stiffen and pull the fingers inward. This progression may take place slowly over a number of years. The earlier Dupuytren’s is treated, the better your chances of making a full recovery.
For most people, Dupuytren’s appears to strike somewhat randomly. It is more common in old age, in men than in women, in habitual alcohol drinkers, and in people of Northern European ancestry. The condition can run in families.
Like other hand issues discussed in this article, Dupuytren’s is generally treated first with nonsurgical methods, including physical therapy, splinting, and steroids. In severe cases, when the contracture creates a serious handicap, surgery can significantly alleviate the symptoms of Dupuytren’s, though it does not address the root cause.
For people with diabetes, glycemic control will likely be of paramount importance to maintain good hand health.
