Dupuytren's contracture is a painful hand condition characterized by tissue pathology in the palm and fingers. For reasons that are not well understood, the tissue in the hand begins to toughen, thereby causing the fingers to curl in toward the palm. This results in significant discomfort and it can bring great functional disability.

The organic causes of Dupuytren's contracture are somewhat unclear and most information to date remains descriptive in nature. The condition occurs more commonly in people of European-American descent and it is more prevalent in men compared to women. Although there is no evidence of a causal relationship, Dupuytren's contracture is common among people who smoke and drink, and it is more likely to occur in people with pre-existing medical conditions such as diabetes, seizures, and arthritis.

Traditionally, treatment approaches for Dupuytren's contracture have been quite limited. Physicians often referred patients to orthopedic surgery; however, the condition is progressive and chronic in nature and is found to reoccur following surgery. Thus, surgery rarely presents a viable long-term solution.

Alternative strategies involve exercising the muscles in the hand and wrist so as to keep muscles flexible and vital. With a small investment of time each day, exercise can ward off the onset and progression of many repetitive strain injuries. As a result, it represents the forefront of treatment for Dupuytren's contracture. To learn more about how it works and what it can do for you, visit the resource center at www.repetitive-strain.com.