Skip to content 
What is Dupuytren's contracture?
Dupuytren’s contracture is a condition characterized by deviation of the fingers from their natural position due to thickening and shortening of the tendons of the palm. Often, thickening of the connective tissue of the palm occurs, causing the fingers, particularly the ring and little fingers, to bend toward the palm. This condition makes it difficult to straighten the fingers and can lead to loss of function over time.
Dupuytren’s contracture usually progresses slowly and can be caused by a combination of genetic, environmental and health factors. If not diagnosed and treated early, it can make daily activities difficult and lead to permanent loss of function.
What are the symptoms and causes of Dupuytren's contracture?
Symptoms:
- Shortening of the fingers: The most obvious symptom is the bending of the fingers towards the palm. Over time, the fingers become bent in such a way that it is difficult to straighten them.
- Swelling in the palm: Thickening and hardening can occur in the palm, the area where the fingers are shortened.
- Restricted movement: It can become difficult for the fingers to move and it becomes difficult to straighten or open the fingers.
- Lumps in the palm: Hard, small nodules (masses) can form in the palm. These nodules are caused by thickening of the connective tissue attached to the tendon.
Reasons:
- Genetic factors: Dupuytren’s contracture can indicate a genetic predisposition. People with similar problems in the family are more likely to develop the disease.
- Age: The disease is generally more common in people aged 40 and over.
- Gender: Dupuytren’s contracture is more common in men.
- Smoking: It is believed that smoking may accelerate the development of the disease.
- Diabetes mellitus: The risk of Dupuytren’s contracture may increase in people with diabetes.
- Other health problems: Liver disease or some connective tissue disorders may also contribute to the development of the disease.
How is Dupuytren's contracture treated?
- Monitoring: In the early stages, only monitoring may be done before the disease progresses. During this process, attempts are made to relieve symptoms and progress is monitored.
- Physical therapy: Physical therapy and special exercises may be used to increase finger mobility and reduce pain.
- Corticosteroid injections: Corticosteroid injections may be given in the palm of the hand to reduce inflammation and pain.
- Enzyme injections: Collagenase injections may increase finger mobility by breaking down thickened connective tissue.
- Surgical intervention: In advanced cases, surgical intervention may be required. Surgery removes thickened tissue and allows the fingers to return to their natural position. After surgery, physical therapy may be recommended.
What is the recovery process after treatment for Dupuytren's contracture?
- Recovery time: The recovery process after surgery varies from person to person and can generally take 4-6 weeks. During this process, the stitches and healing in the palm of the hand must be checked regularly.
- Physical therapy: Physical therapy is performed to restore mobility and strength to the fingers. Special exercises and hand therapy support the healing process.
- Pain and swelling management: Pain and swelling are normal in the first few weeks, but can be managed with painkillers and ice applications recommended by the doctor.
- Long-term follow-up: Regular follow-up examinations are performed after treatment. These examinations assess the healing process and check for any complications.
- Functional recovery: After treatment, the fingers can regain their old functions. This process is supported by physical therapy and regular exercises.
At MSM Clinic, we offer an individual treatment plan tailored to the needs of each patient in the treatment of Dupuytren’s contracture. Our goal is to help our patients recover quickly and healthily and improve their quality of life.
