Simple Tips for Healthy Hands

September marks the 2nd annual Hand Health Month, a national observance that encourages people to take proactive steps to protect hand health and maintain mobility.

Why Hand Health Matters

From morning routines and work tasks to favorite hobbies and time spent with loved ones, our hands play a critical role in how we interact with the world.

Caring for our hands means recognizing early signs of potential conditions and seeking care when symptoms arise. This could include pain, stiffness, or difficulty performing everyday activities.

Know the Signs of Hand Conditions

Most people know about common ailments like arthritis, and there’s a wealth of information about symptom management and treatment. Other, lesser-known conditions can impact our hands, and by extension, our quality of life.

One example of an under-addressed condition is Dupuytren’s contracture—nicknamed “Viking Hand” because it's more common in people with Northern European heritage.¹ It’s caused by a buildup of collagen beneath the skin of the palm.^1,2 Over time, this can form a rope-like cord that pulls one or more fingers toward the palm so that the hand can’t fully straighten.

As Dupuytren’s contracture progresses, daily activities can become increasingly challenging.^1,2 Think about performing seemingly simple tasks, such as texting, opening jars, buttoning a shirt, and shaking someone’s hand, with a curved hand. An estimated 13 million Americans may be affected by Dupuytren’s contracture and dealing with this reality.^3,4*

What You Can Do for Hand Health Today and in the Future

The good news: Caring for your hands doesn’t have to be complicated. A few simple habits can help protect hand function, prevent injury, and make it easier to recognize potential concerns early.

Here are three ways to support your hand health:

1. Take the Tabletop Test

The Tabletop Test is a simple way to determine whether you may have Dupuytren’s contracture.² Place your hand palm down on a flat surface. If you are unable to lay your hand completely flat, it may be time to talk with a hand specialist.

Watch how to take the Tabletop Test here.

2. Protect and Strengthen Your Hands

These habits can help prevent injuries and support long-term hand function:

• • • Practice proper ergonomics while working at a desk, including using equipment and seating that support healthy posture.⁵
    •  Strengthen your hands and wrists with regular stretching and mobility exercises.⁶
    • Wear protective gloves when performing tasks that could expose your hands to cuts, splinters, burns, or other injuries.⁷

3. Know When to Seek Help

If you or someone you know notices symptoms affecting hand function, such as finger stiffness, difficulty straightening fingers, or trouble placing a hand flat on a surface, don’t ignore the signs.

Early evaluation can help identify underlying causes and provide access to appropriate treatment options. Visit factsonhand.com to find a local hand specialist, learn more about hand health conditions, and explore available treatment options, including nonsurgical approaches.

Hand health is an important part of overall well-being. Small steps, from prevention to early intervention, can help keep your hands strong, healthy, and ready for the activities that matter most to you.

* Dupuytren’s contracture prevalence estimation calculation in the U.S.: Average Dupuytren’s contracture prevalence in the U.S. (5%) multiplied by U.S. adult population (~258 million adults per 2020 U.S. Census data) = ~13 million.

References

1. Hurst LC, Badalamente MA, Hentz VR, et al. Injectable collagenase clostridium histolyticum for Dupuytren’s contracture. N Engl J Med. 2009;361(10):968-979.
2. Bayat A, McGrouther DA. Management of Dupuytren’s disease: clear advice for an elusive condition. Ann R Coll Surg Engl. 2006;88(1):3-8.
3. MedlinePlus Genetics. Dupuytren contracture. National Library of Medicine. Updated April 1, 2019. Accessed August 11, 2026.  https://medlineplus.gov/genetics/condition/dupuytren-contracture
4. U.S. Census Bureau. U.S. adult population grew faster than nation's total population from 2010 to 2020. Published August 12, 2021. Accessed August 11, 2026. https://www.census.gov/library/stories/2021/08/united-states-adult-population-grew-faster-than-nations-total-population-from-2010-to-2020.html 
5. Mayo Clinic. Office Ergonomics: Your How-To Guide. Updated May 25, 2023. Accessed August 11, 2026. https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/adult-health/in-depth/office-ergonomics/art-20046169
6. Mayo Clinic. Try These Wrist and Forearm Stretches at Work. Published September 26, 2024. Accessed August 11, 2026. https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/adult-health/multimedia/forearm-stretches/vid-20084698
7. Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). 1910.138 Hand Protection. Accessed August 11, 2026. https://www.osha.gov/laws-regs/regulations/standardnumber/1910/1910.138