Jonathan Aarons M.D.

Tired of Chronic Pain?

Dupuytren’s Contracture

Dupuytren's Contracture
Dupuytren’s Contracture

Dupuytren’s contracture is a deformity of the hand that develops slowly over years.  It is initially painful but most people seek help based on the functional disability that it causes.  Dupuytren’s contracture is caused by thickening of the layer of tissue under the skin of your palm.  The patient may notice nodules under the skin that are tender to touch.  These nodules eventually joint together to form thick bands of tissue, contract around the tendons of the fingers, and cause the fingers to bend toward the palm.  The fourth and fifth fingers of the hand are usually affected.  The disease usually develops in older men of Northern European descent.  The disease may be caused by trauma to the area.  It is also associated with diabetes and alcoholism.  X-rays or MRIs of the hand are useful to exclude other causes of pain and contracture such as fractures or tumors.  Treatment begins with conservative modalities such as physical therapy.  Needling of the fibrous chords has been done to break them up.  The chords can be injected with enzymes to break of the tissue followed by manual techniques to increase range of motion.  Surgery may be needed in severe cases to cut the chords in order to restore function.  About 20% of patients experience recurrence after treatment.

2 comments on “Dupuytren’s Contracture

  1. Jonathan Aarons MD says:

    Dupytrens is treated surgically. I usually don’t see patients with that problem. I also don’t do disability evaluations for work either. I treat painful conditions mainly with injections. I am happy to see you for an appointment but not sure how much help I can be. Call 954-580-8838 for an appointment if you want.
    Dr A

  2. Daniel Lutes says:

    I have found a study which shows a relationship of Dupuytrens Contracture and work related injury. The study was started in 1993 and concluded in 1996. this study is vert detailed and is 67 pages long. I would like to share [email protected]

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