What is Dupuytren’s contracture?
This is a disease that affects not just your hand, but your whole life.
Slowly, a layer of knots forms in the palm of your hand. Nodules begin to form, which brings about a temporary tenderness in your hand. As the tenderness fades away, a thick sensation becomes more present and a bump is formed. That bump is known as a chord, and as it develops, it has an effect on either your ring finger or pinky.
The thickness makes it more difficult for you to pick things up, write, and participate in many other activities that are generally taken for granted. Unfortunately, there is no cure for this condition; however, it can be treated to reduce the symptoms experienced.
What Causes Dupuytren’s Contracture?
According to research, there is no evidence as to what exactly causes Dupuytren’s Contracture. The problem is more likely to affect men more than women, and it usually affects people aged 40 and above. Evidence also shows that people of north European descent are most likely to contract the disease. There is some research on risk factors that may increase the chances of Dupuytren’s contracture.
Smoking is a bad habit overall, which affects the lungs and heart. Blood flow and circulation are affected. Studies show that a reduction in the blood may lead to a person contracting Dupuytren’s contracture. Drinking also has an effect on blood flow, but comparatively lesser than smoking.
Diabetes is another risk factor for contracting the disease. Diabetes has been linked to other conditions like trigger finger, and it has the general effect of making problems like this worse. Just like smoking, it has an effect on reducing blood levels in the body which may lead to getting Dupuytrens disease.