What is Dupuytren's contracture?
A person with Dupuytren's contracture has thickening and shortening of the strong layer of tissue beneath the skin of the hand and fingers. Dupuytren's gradually causes the fingers to curl toward the palm tightly. Over time, the person is unable to straighten the fingers. Rarely, Dupuytren's contracture occurs in the feet.

What are the symptoms of Dupuytren's contracture?
The most dramatic finding in Dupuytren's contracture is a ring finger and little finger that begin to curl toward the palm. Dupuytren's sufferers become unable to fully extend the ring and little fingers and the tendons become tight beneath the skin. The other digits may also be affected.

How does the doctor treat Dupuytren's contracture?
Treatment for Dupuytren's contracture includes corticosteroids, physical therapy and surgery to restore function.