Duprytren’s Contracture

What is Dupuytren’s Contracture?

Dupuytren’s contracture is a condition that affects the connective tissue beneath the skin of the palm. Over time, this tissue thickens and forms tight cords that pull the fingers inward, preventing them from fully straightening.

The condition most commonly affects the:

• Ring finger
• Little finger
• Occasionally the middle finger

Dupuytren’s contracture usually develops slowly over months or years. In the early stages, people may notice small lumps or nodules in the palm. As the condition progresses, the affected fingers gradually bend toward the palm.

This can make everyday activities more difficult, including:

• Writing
• Shaking hands
• Putting hands in pockets
• Wearing gloves
• Gripping objects

Although the condition is typically not painful, the main concern is loss of hand function and flexibility.

How Does Dupuytren’s Contracture Happen?

In many cases, the exact cause of Dupuytren’s contracture is unknown. However, several factors are believed to increase the risk of developing the condition.

Possible contributing factors include:

• Genetics – the condition often runs in families
• Age – more common after age 40
• Gender – men are more frequently affected
• Diabetes
• Epilepsy
• Alcohol dependence
• Previous hand injuries

The condition is more common in people of Northern European ancestry, although it can affect individuals of any background.

Contrary to popular belief, Dupuytren’s contracture is not directly linked to manual labour, vibrating tools, or specific occupations.

In some cases, an old hand injury or trauma that has not healed properly may contribute to the development of abnormal tissue thickening.

What Are the Symptoms of Dupuytren’s Contracture?

Symptoms usually develop gradually and worsen over time.

Common symptoms include:

• Small lumps or nodules in the palm
• Thickened cords of tissue beneath the skin
• Skin on the palm appearing puckered or dimpled
• Fingers gradually bending toward the palm
• Difficulty straightening the fingers
• Reduced grip strength
• Tightness or pulling sensation in the hand
• Finger stiffness, especially in the morning
• Difficulty performing tasks such as writing, gripping objects, or dressing

Although pain is uncommon, reduced hand mobility can significantly affect daily activities.

Related Conditions

Some individuals with Dupuytren’s contracture may develop similar fibrous tissue changes in other areas of the body, including:

• Garrod’s pads – thickened tissue over the knuckles
• Ledderhose disease – fibrous tissue in the soles of the feet
• Peyronie’s disease – fibrous tissue changes in the penis

These conditions occur due to similar changes in connective tissue.

What Should I Do If I Have Dupuytren’s Contracture?

If you notice lumps in your palm or difficulty straightening your fingers, it is important to seek medical advice early.

A healthcare professional may:

• Examine the hand and fingers
• Assess range of motion
• Determine how severe the contracture is

Treatment options depend on the severity of the condition. Mild cases may be managed conservatively, while more advanced cases may require surgical treatment to restore finger movement.

A physiotherapist can also help design a rehabilitation programme to maintain hand mobility and function.

At ACE Physio Sports – Singapore, physiotherapists provide targeted hand rehabilitation programmes to support recovery and improve hand function.

Physiotherapy Treatment for Dupuytren’s Contracture

Physiotherapy plays an important role in maintaining hand function and supporting recovery, especially after surgery.

Treatment focuses on improving flexibility, reducing stiffness, and strengthening the muscles of the hand.

Common physiotherapy treatments include:

Range of Motion Exercises

Gentle exercises help maintain finger flexibility and prevent stiffness.

Strengthening Exercises

Exercises improve grip strength and overall hand function.

Manual Therapy

Hands-on treatment techniques help improve joint mobility and reduce soft tissue tightness.

Splinting

Custom splints may be used to help maintain proper finger positioning and prevent worsening contracture.

Scar Management (After Surgery)

Physiotherapists may use techniques such as:

• Friction massage
• Electrotherapy
• Scar mobility exercises

These treatments help improve scar healing and prevent stiffness.

Cryotherapy and Swelling Management

Cold therapy and compression may be used to reduce swelling and discomfort following surgery.

Ultrasound Therapy

Ultrasound treatment may help promote tissue healing and reduce inflammation.

Functional Rehabilitation

Exercises are designed to restore normal hand function for daily activities such as gripping, lifting, and writing.

Through structured physiotherapy, patients can improve:

• Hand mobility
• Finger flexibility
• Grip strength
• Coordination

What Should I Avoid With Dupuytren’s Contracture?

If you have Dupuytren’s contracture, it is important to avoid habits that may worsen the condition.

Avoid:

• Ignoring early symptoms
• Delaying medical assessment
• Excessive strain on the affected hand
• Returning to heavy activities too soon after surgery
• Skipping physiotherapy rehabilitation

Early management and proper rehabilitation can help maintain hand function and slow the progression of symptoms.

Can There Be Long-Term Effects?

If left untreated, Dupuytren’s contracture may gradually worsen and lead to long-term complications such as:

• Permanent finger bending
• Reduced hand mobility
• Difficulty gripping objects
• Joint stiffness
• Reduced hand function

In severe cases, surgery may be required to release the contracture and restore finger movement.

After surgery, physiotherapy plays a critical role in recovery, helping patients regain mobility, improve strength, and reduce the risk of complications.

Why Choose ACE Physio Sports

ACE Physio Sports – Singapore provides specialised physiotherapy treatment for hand conditions and musculoskeletal injuries.

Our experienced physiotherapists focus on personalised rehabilitation programmes designed to restore movement and improve function.

Patients benefit from:

• Experienced physiotherapists
• Personalised treatment plans
• Evidence-based rehabilitation techniques
• Sports and musculoskeletal specialists
• Modern physiotherapy equipment

Our clinic is conveniently located along East Coast Road, serving patients from nearby areas such as:

• Marine Parade
• Katong
• Joo Chiat
• Siglap
• Bedok
• Telok Kurau

We are committed to helping patients regain strength, mobility, and confidence in daily activities.

Book an Appointment

To arrange an appointment, please call +65 81535374 or visit acephysiosport.com.