Dupuytren’s contractureis a disorder that affects the hand.

This condition begins with nodules that form in the palm, which can grow into thick cords of tissue.

Over time, the fingers can be pulled into a bent position.

Dupuytren’s contracture of ring finger on woman’s palm.

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While this condition usually is not painful, it can cause significant difficulties with daily tasks.

However, it can affect the thumb as well.

Is Dupuytren’s Contracture Painful?

How Common Is Dupuytren’s Contracture?

As a result, this condition is believed to be more common than reported.

Dupuytren’s contracture is twice as common in the right hand than in the left.

However, around 80% of people with this condition will end up with symptoms in both hands.

The condition is more common in men than women.

Causes of Dupuytren’s Contracture and Risk Factors

The exactcause of Dupuytren’s contractureis not known.

However, certain risk factors make it more likely for a person to develop this condition.

Dupuytren’s contracture often runs in families.

Approximately 5% of people with Dupuytren’s contracture will also have these conditions.

Dupuytren’s is diagnosed by a healthcare provider with a physical exam.

Early detection of Dupuytren’s contracture does not prevent it from progressing.

Even with treatment, Dupuytren’s contracture canrecur.

Nodules develop first, then grow into thick cords of tissue.

Over time, this can pull the fingers into a bent position.

Around 80% of people with this condition will eventually have symptoms in both hands.

Johns Hopkins Medicine.What is dupuytren’s contracture?

American Society for Surgery of the Hand.Dupuytren’s contracture.

National Library of Medicine.Dupuytren contracture.

2022;17(3):491-498. doi:10.1177/1558944720919923