I Just Got Diagnosed with Dupuytren’s Contracture — What Should I Do?

If you’ve just been told you have Dupuytren’s Contracture, it’s completely normal to feel uncertain.

Most people leave their first appointment with more questions than answers:

• Is this serious?
• Will I lose function in my hand?
• Do I need surgery right away?
• Can I slow this down?
• What are my options?

The first and most important step is this:

Pause. Learn. Do not rush.

Dupuytren’s Contracture progresses differently for every individual. Many cases remain mild for years. Others require intervention at some point. Understanding where you are now helps guide what to do next.

Step 1: Understand Your Stage

Early-stage Dupuytren’s may include:

• Small nodules in the palm
• Mild tightness
• No significant finger bending

More advanced stages may involve:

• Visible cords
• Difficulty fully straightening fingers
• Functional limitation

👉 Learn About Staging & Progression
(Link to staging page)

Step 2: Decide If Treatment Is Needed Now

Not everyone requires immediate treatment.

Many doctors recommend “watchful waiting” when:

• There is no functional limitation
• Finger contracture is minimal
• Daily activities are unaffected

Monitoring progression over time is often appropriate.

👉 Learn About When Treatment Is Recommended
(Link to conventional page)

Step 3: Learn Your Options

There is no one-size-fits-all solution.

Some individuals choose conventional medical procedures such as:

• Needle aponeurotomy
• Collagenase injections
• Surgery
• Radiation therapy (in select early cases)

Others explore supportive strategies before or alongside procedures.

👉 Explore Conventional Treatments
👉 Explore Alternative & Supportive Approaches

Step 4: Understand Recurrence

Dupuytren’s can recur after treatment. Understanding recurrence rates, timing, and contributing factors can help you make more informed decisions.

👉 Learn About Recurrence & Long-Term Monitoring

Step 5: Address Pain If Present

While not always painful, some people experience soreness during early stages or periods of progression.

👉 Learn How to Manage Pain & Soreness

Most Important: Take Your Time

Dupuytren’s Contracture is rarely an emergency.

Education and timing matter more than rushing into procedures.

Use this site to understand your options, ask informed questions, and decide what aligns best with your stage and goals.

You are not alone — and you have time to learn.