Understanding Dupuytren’s Contracture: Causes, Symptoms, and Effective Physiotherapy at Physio360.

INTRODUCTION:

Dupuytren’s Contracture is a progressive hand condition that can silently affect daily life by limiting the ability to straighten fingers, especially the ring and little fingers. Though it may start with mild discomfort or a small lump in the palm, it can progress to noticeable contractures and functional limitations.

At Physio360, we specialise in identifying and managing musculoskeletal conditions like Dupuytren’s Contracture through personalised and effective physiotherapy solutions. We help you regain hand function and avoid surgical intervention where possible.

What is Dupuytren’s Contracture?

Dupuytren’s Contracture is a fibroproliferative disorder of the hand fascia (the connective tissue under the skin of the palm and fingers). Over time, thickened cords form beneath the skin, causing the fingers to bend toward the palm. This can lead to difficulty performing basic tasks like writing, gripping, or shaking hands.

Causes and Risk Factors

While the exact cause isn’t always clear, several risk factors contribute to the development of Dupuytren’s Contracture:

• Genetics (family history plays a major role)

• Age (most common in people over 50)

• Gender (more frequent in men)

• Alcohol consumption and smoking

• Diabetes or epilepsy

• Repeated microtrauma to the palm

At Physio360, we analyse your history and contributing factors to offer a comprehensive care plan tailored to your specific needs.

Common Symptoms of Dupuytren’s Contracture

✔ Nodules or lumps in the palm

✔ Thickened, cord-like tissue under the skin

✔ Fingers (especially ring/little fingers) bending inward

✔ Difficulty placing the hand flat on surfaces

✔ Loss of grip strength and dexterity

Early physiotherapy intervention is essential to slow the progression and improve function without surgery.

How Physiotherapy at Physio360 Can Help

At Physio360, our team of experienced physiotherapists creates individualised treatment plans that aim to improve hand function, reduce pain, and enhance flexibility. Our non-invasive approach includes:

Manual Therapy

• Soft tissue mobilisation and myofascial release

• Fascial gliding techniques to break down adhesions

Stretching and Range-of-Motion Exercises

• Gentle finger extension stretches

• Passive and active range-of-motion exercises for the palm and digits

Splinting and Positioning

• Custom night splints to prevent further contraction

• Taping techniques to support proper alignment

Electrotherapy and Ultrasound

• Therapeutic ultrasound to reduce tissue stiffness

• TENS to relieve pain and improve circulation

Functional Rehabilitation

• Grip-strengthening exercises

• Task-specific training to restore daily hand function

  
  

Why Choose Physio360 for Dupuytren’s Contracture?

Physio360 offers world-class physiotherapy care with a personalised touch. Here’s why we’re trusted across Chennai:

• Expert Therapists trained in hand rehabilitation

• State-of-the-art facilities with modern modalities

• Flexible appointment slots and extended hours

• Multiple centres across Chennai for easy access

• Post-treatment follow-up for long-term results

We not only treat the symptoms but also empower you with self-care techniques to manage the condition at home.

Real Patients. Real Results.

At Physio360, we’ve helped many patients with hand dysfunctions return to their daily routines without pain. From early-stage Dupuytren’s to post-surgical rehab, our comprehensive therapy model ensures faster, sustained recovery.

Book Your Consultation Today!

If you or a loved one is experiencing stiffness or bending in the fingers, don’t wait. Early physiotherapy intervention can prevent the worsening of Dupuytren’s Contracture and eliminate the need for surgery.

Contact Physio360 – Chennai’s trusted physiotherapy clinic – for a personalised consultation today! Let us help you open up your hands to a pain-free life.

REFERENCED AND RESEARCHED ARTICLE

1.Dupuytren’s Contracture – Current Concepts https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7355095/

2Dupuytren’s disease: A reviewhttps://doi.org/10.1016/j.cjprs.2024.08.002