What is dupuytren’s contracture?
Dupuytren’s Contracture happens when the skin under your hand slowly thickens and gets tight. This can force the fingers to bend towards the palm, like a claw. It can affect any finger but mostly affects the ring finger, then the little finger and then the middle finger.
It can limit movement in your hands. This can make it hard to do some tasks. While the cause is unknown, some research suggests it may be passed down through families. This skin concern is also linked to health concerns like epilepsy, alcoholism and diabetesDiabetes is a life-long metabolic disease where the body either doesn't make enough insulin or can't use the insulin it makes. This causes high blood sugar levels. Diabetes can cause damage to various organs over time if not properly managed.
What will my GP do now for my dupuytren’s contracture?
Some people can have Dupuytren’s Contracture and not need treatment at all. Sometimes surgery can help. Your GPGeneral Practitioner will talk to you about the right treatment for you and will refer you to a surgeon if needed.
There is not enough research that supports using hand treatments, splints, exercise or steroid injections to treat this problem.
What will my GP do in the future for my dupuytren’s contracture?
Your GP will want to check in with you from time to time to see how you are. If your symptoms get worse, your GP may refer you to a surgeon.
If you have surgery, your GP can arrange a splint to use during your recovery period. You may need to wear a night splint for three months.
Your hand function may take several months to get back to normal. Your wounds can be tender during this time. After your surgery, your GP can also refer you to a specialist for hand therapy.
