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This mysterious malady often starts with a small, tender lump in the palm of your hand and can lead to finger deformity. According to research or other evidence, the following self-care steps may be helpful: |
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| Science Ratings | Nutritional Supplements | Herbs |
|---|---|---|
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DMSO (topical) |
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 Reliable
and relatively consistent scientific data showing a substantial health benefit. Contradictory, insufficient, or preliminary studies
suggesting a health benefit or minimal health benefit. For a herb, supported by traditional use but minimal
or no scientific evidence. For a supplement, little scientific support and/or minimal health
benefit. |
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What are the symptoms?
Dupuytren’s contracture is initially noticed as a tender, small, hardened nodule on the palm of the hand. As it progresses, a cordlike band develops along the palm and finger, which causes the affected finger to stay in a semi-closed position.
Medical options
Corticosteroid injections such as methyprednisolone (Depo-Medrol®) are commonly used.
Advanced contractures are treated with surgery; however, the recurrence rate is relatively high. Severe cases might require amputation of the affected finger.
Vitamins that may be helpful
Many decades ago, researchers investigated the effects of taking vitamin E to treat Dupuytren’s contracture. Several studies reported that taking 200–2,000 IU of vitamin E per day for several months was helpful.1 Other studies, however, did not find it useful.2 Overall, there are more positive trials than negative ones,3 although none of the published research is recent. Nonetheless, some doctors believe that a three-month trial using very high amounts of vitamin E (2,000 IU per day) is helpful in some cases.
DMSO applied to the affected area may reduce pain by inhibiting transmission of pain messages, and may also soften the abnormal connective tissue associated with disorders such as Dupuytren’s contracture, keloids, Peyronie’s disease, and scleroderma. Research on the use of topical DMSO to treat Dupuytren’s contracture remains preliminary and unproven.4
References
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1. Thomson GR. Treatment of Dupuytren’s contracture with vitamin E. BMJ 1949;Dec 17:1382–3.
2. Richards HJ. Dupuytren’s contracture treated with vitamin E. BMJ 1952;June 21:1328.
3. Kirk JE, Chieffi M. Tocopherol administration to patients with Dupuytren’s contracture: effect on plasma tocopherol levels and degree of contracture. Pro Soc Exp Biol Med 1952;80:565 [review].
4. Jacob SW, Wood DC. Dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO). Toxicology, pharmacology, and clinical experience. Am J Surg 1967;114:414–26.
Copyright © 2006 Healthnotes, Inc. All rights reserved. www.healthnotes.com
Learn more about Healthnotes, the company.
Learn more about the authors of Healthnotes.
The information presented in Healthnotes is for informational purposes only. It is based on scientific studies (human, animal, or in vitro), clinical experience, or traditional usage as cited in each article. The results reported may not necessarily occur in all individuals. For many of the conditions discussed, treatment with prescription or over the counter medication is also available. Consult your doctor, practitioner, and/or chemist for any health problem and before using any supplements or before making any changes in prescribed medications. Information expires March 2007.
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