Why We Should Be Talking About Dupuytren’s Contracture
Health & Patients
Think about how many times you use your hands each day and what it would be like if they did not function properly. Everyday tasks may be difficult to do, like1:
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combing your hair
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shaking someone’s hand
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typing on a computer
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making dinner
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enjoying your favorite hobby
This is a reality for an estimated 13 million Americans who suffer from Dupuytren’s contracture.2,3*
Signs and Symptoms
Caused by a buildup of collagen in the hand, Dupuytren’s contracture is marked by a rope-like cord that pulls one's finger(s) toward the palm so finger(s) cannot be straightened.1,4 As the condition progresses, individuals may find it difficult to use their hands for daily tasks and activities. It is a lifelong condition that may get worse over time.
For most patients, Dupuytren’s contracture affects the metacarpophalangeal (MP) joint, where the finger meets the palm, and the proximal interphalangeal (PIP) joint, or the knuckle, in the ring and/or little finger(s).4 The hand condition most commonly affects adults over 40 and tends to run in families.5
Tabletop Test
The Tabletop Test is a simple way to see if someone may have Dupuytren’s contracture.1 People who are unable to lay their hand flat against a tabletop should talk to a Hand Specialist and ask about Dupuytren’s contracture.
How to Get Help—One Patient’s Advice
People with Dupuytren’s contracture may get misdiagnosed with conditions such as arthritis and trigger finger. Additionally, they may delay seeking treatment altogether, oftentimes due to fear of surgery or thinking surgery is their only option.1,4 The condition is not well-known, so patients may go years before seeking treatment, all the while experiencing discomfort and disruption to their lives.
“As a guitar player, it was really affecting my career,” said Clint, a Dupuytren’s contracture patient. “I kept thinking, my pinky just isn’t quite doing what it used to.” Learn more about Clint’s story.
Anyone experiencing symptoms of Dupuytren’s contracture should find a Hand Specialist near them to discuss treatment options.
For additional information or to find a Hand Specialist, visit factsonhand.com.
* 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. Bayat A, McGrouther DA. Management of Dupuytren’s disease – clear advice for an elusive condition. Ann R Coll Surg Engl. 2006;88:3-8.
2. MedlinePlus Genetics. Dupuytren contracture. National Library of Medicine. Updated April 1, 2019. Accessed August 15, 2025. https://medlineplus.gov/genetics/condition/dupuytren-contracture
3. Ogunwole SU, Rabe MA, Roberts AW, Caplan Z. United States adult population grew faster than nation’s total population from 2010 to 2020. U.S. Census Bureau. Published August 12, 2021. Accessed August 15, 2025. https://www.census.gov/library/stories/2021/08/united-states-adult-population-grew-faster-than-nations-total-population-from-2010-to-2020.html
4. 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.
5. Trojian TH, Chu SM. Dupuytren's disease: diagnosis and treatment. Am Fam Physician. 2007;76:86-89
