Dupuytren's contracture is a condition that causes the palmar fascia (a thick band of tissue that runs across the palm of your hand) to become thick and tight enough to bend one or more fingers inward toward your palm. This can make it difficult or even impossible to fully straighten the affected finger(s).
Dupuytren's contracture is most common in middle-aged and older adults, and it's more likely to affect men than women. It can also be inherited, so if you have a family history of the condition, you're more likely to develop it.
The exact cause of Dupuytren's contracture is unknown, but it's thought to be related to a combination of factors, including:
* Genetics: Some people are more likely to develop Dupuytren's contracture if they have a family history of the condition.
* Age: Dupuytren's contracture is most common in people over the age of 50.
* Sex: Men are more likely to develop Dupuytren's contracture than women.
* Smoking: Smoking can increase your risk of developing Dupuytren's contracture.
* Diabetes: People with diabetes are more likely to develop Dupuytren's contracture.
Symptoms of Dupuytren's Contracture
The most common symptom of Dupuytren's contracture is a thickened band of tissue that runs across the palm of your hand. This can cause one or more fingers to bend inward toward your palm. Other symptoms may include:
* A lump or nodule in the palm of your hand
* Pain or tenderness in the palm of your hand
* Difficulty straightening the affected finger(s)
* Weakness in the affected hand
* A feeling of tightness in the palm of your hand
Treatment for Dupuytren's Contracture
There are a number of different treatment options for Dupuytren's contracture, including:
* Nonsurgical treatments: These include exercises, splinting, and injections of corticosteroids.
* Surgery: This is the only way to permanently correct Dupuytren's contracture. Surgery involves removing the thickened palmar fascia.
If you're experiencing any of the symptoms of Dupuytren's contracture, it's important to see a doctor to get a diagnosis and discuss your treatment options.