Dupuytren’s Contracture
Why Are My Fingers Curling Into My Palm?
Fingers gradually pulling into the palm and becoming difficult to straighten is often Dupuytren's contracture — a thickening of the tissue layer under the skin of the palm that slowly tightens like a cord, most often affecting the ring and small fingers. It tends to run in families and progresses slowly over years.
Cause & Symptoms
The exact cause isn't fully understood, but genetics play a strong role, and it's more common in people of Northern European descent, men, and with age. Early signs include small firm nodules in the palm; as it progresses, cords form that pull one or more fingers into a bent position that can't be fully straightened.
Diagnosis and Treatment
Diagnosis is made by exam alone. Mild cases without functional limitation may simply be monitored. When contracture significantly limits hand use, treatment options include needle aponeurotomy (a minimally invasive needle-based release), enzyme injection, or surgical removal of the affected tissue — the right option depends on the severity and pattern of the contracture.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Does Dupuytren's contracture come back after treatment?
Recurrence is possible with any treatment option, and varies by technique — this is worth discussing individually based on your specific case.
Do I need treatment if it's not bothering me yet?
Not necessarily — many patients are monitored until the contracture meaningfully limits hand function. If there is a painless nodule in the palm, this can just be watched. If a significant contracture of over 20 degrees develops, it is time to talk about treatment options.