A deformity of a finger, or multiple fingers, which usually occurs over many years. It is an inherited connective tissue disorder that affects the palmar fascia in the hand, resulting in a ‘knot’ that forms under the skin of the palm and eventually creates a thick cordlike deformity, which can pull one or more fingers into a stiff, bent position. This condition is also known as Viking Disease, because it originated with the Vikings who spread it throughout Northern Europe, and beyond, as they traveled and intermarried; therefore, is more common in people with ancestors from Northern Europe.

The most common symptoms of Dupuytren’s Contracture include firm lump that develops in palm and into one or more fingers. The lump is typically not painful but may prevent placing the hand flat on a surface. As the condition progresses, the finger(s) stiffen and become more bent making it difficult to wash hands, wear gloves, or get hands into pockets. There is no set time frame of how this condition will progress, some patients will quickly develop severe bent finger(s) and other patients may never. The most commonly involved finger is the ring finger.