There are several exercises that you can do regularly to help complications from Dupotren’s contracture. But good ones will depend on your specific case. “It is preferable to consult an occupational therapist or a physiotherapist for specific advice on home exercises for Dupuytren’s contracture,” explains Dr. Ferri. These exercises may include:
1. Fingers extensions
“The extension of the fingers is one of the most important exercises for Dupuytren’s contracture, because the recovery of the fingers is one of the most visible concerns linked to this condition,” explains Ferri.
How to do it: Put your palm flat on a surface and spread your outstretched fingers. Then bring your fingers together.
2. Finger fingers
How to do it: Put your palm flat on a smooth surface. Lift a finger at a time, take a break, then lower it.
3. Fist opening
Practicing the fist openings regularly can help you with your overall finger mobility, explains Ferri. But be careful not to force your hand in a tight fist, because using a lot of pressure to tighten the fingers together can do more harm than good, she adds.
How to do it: Form a loose fist with all the fingers curly towards the palm. Then open the fist gently and stretch your fingers.
4.
This exercise targets your joints, but it can be difficult if you do not have much movement in your joints. If this is the case, “you can use your other hand to gently help to fold each joint, then straighten it,” notes Ferri. “Make sure you don’t force anything and not pass the point of pain.”
How to do it: With your hands in front of you, fold the first two joints with your fingers down, then straighten them.
5. Massage
“”[Hand] Massage can help manage stiffness, especially in your upper palm, near the base of your fingers, ”explains Ferri.
How to do it: Using your thumb or another finger with one hand, massage gently between the fingers of your other hand. You may also want to consult an experienced massage therapist in the processing of Dupuytren contracture for more advice.
The frequency you do these exercises will depend on the progress of the Dupuytren contracture. “If you are in the early stages of the condition, doing them at least once a day is generally the recommendation, as long as you can complete them and be relatively exempt from pain,” explains Ferri. If you are in the last stages, it may be useful to do them every two days or sometimes a week. Too much exercise can worsen the condition, she adds.
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