Dupuytren's Contracture: Hand Exercises

What Dupuytren's Contracture Does to the Hands

Dupuytren's contracture is a slow, progressive deformity that can affect one or both hands. It typically results in a claw-like contracting of the hand with the pinky and ring finger curled into the palm. Dupuytren's contracture is caused by thickening and stiffening of the tissue underneath the skin in the palm of the hand. Most cases are diagnosed after age 50 and its more common with advancing age.

When Hand Exercises Are Appropriate

Hand exercises will not prevent Dupuytren's or slow down its progression. However, they may be helpful if you have an early or mild form of the disease. Hand exercises tend be most important after surgery, which is the recommended treatment for advanced Dupuytren's. Because every person is unique, check with your doctor or physical therapist to see if and how hand exercises can help your particular situation.

Finger Lifts

For this exercise, you place your hand down flat on a table and exercise just one finger at a time. Lift each finger off the table and hold it up for a few seconds. If your fingers are too stiff or curled to do this exercise, do not try to forcefully extend or stretch them. This could make your contracture worse.

Finger Spreads

Dupuytren's contracture most commonly affects the ring and pinky fingers, but all your fingers could be involved. One common finger flexibility exercise is to put your hand down flat on a table and practice spreading all your fingers as far apart as you can and then bringing them back together.

Grip Exercises

To maintain dexterity and strengthen your grip, you can practice picking up objects with your hand. Start out with larger objects, which will be easier to do, and then work your way down to smaller objects. You can also try improving your grip by squeezing a small towel or a piece of paper into a small ball.

Thumb Exercises

To exercise your thumb, make an "O" by touching the tip of your thumb to the tip of each finger, one by one. Another exercise is to hold your hand out flat in front of you with your fingers together. Next, spread your thumb out away from the other fingers, and then try to touch your thumb to the base of your pinky finger before returning your hand to the spread position.

After Surgery

The most common surgery for Dupuytren's contracture is called fasciotomy. This surgery removes or splits the thickened tissue under the palm of your hand. After surgery you may need to wear a splint for a certain period. Elevating your hand above your chest level and gently moving your fingers can help relieve pain and stiffness during this time.

Occupational or Physical Therapy

Working with an occupational or physical therapist, specifically one who specializes in the hand, is important. Hand exercises may be started within a few days after surgery. Your therapist will teach you how to do gentle stretching and strengthening exercises. After recovery, you may be able to continue these exercises at home.