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.
Try vitamin E
Take 200 to 1,000 IU of vitamin E a day for several months to help treat Dupuytren's contracture
Discover DMSO
Under a healthcare provider’s supervision, apply this solvent to the skin several times daily to help control pain and soften connective tissues
About
About This Condition
In Dupuytren’s contracture, a fibrous tissue formation occurs in the palm of the hand that can cause the last two fingers to curl up.
The origin of this condition is not well understood.
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.
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For over a decade, our team has combed through thousands of research articles published in reputable journals. To help you make educated decisions, and to better understand controversial or confusing supplements, our medical experts have digested the science into these three easy-to-follow ratings. We hope this provides you with a helpful resource to make informed decisions towards your health and well-being.
3 StarsReliable and relatively consistent scientific data showing a substantial health benefit.
2 StarsContradictory, insufficient, or preliminary studies suggesting a health benefit or minimal health benefit.
1 StarFor an herb, supported by traditional use but minimal or no scientific evidence. For a supplement, little scientific support.
Supplement
Why
1 Star
DMSO
Refer to label instructions
Supplemental dimethyl sulfoxide applied to the affected area may reduce pain by inhibiting transmission of pain messages, and may also soften the connective tissue.
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.
1 Star
Vitamin E
Refer to label instructions
Supplementing with vitamin E may improve Dupuytren’s contracture, although research on the topic has been conflicting.
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. Other studies, however, did not find it useful. Overall, there are more positive trials than negative ones, 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.
The information presented by TraceGains 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. Self-treatment is not recommended for life-threatening conditions that require medical treatment under a doctor's care. For many of the conditions discussed, treatment with prescription or over the counter medication is also available. Consult your doctor, practitioner, and/or pharmacist for any health problem and before using any supplements or before making any changes in prescribed medications. Information expires December 2025.
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