I would really appreciate advice about treating Dupuytren’s nodules.

Two nodules appeared in my right hand (the palm and pinky finger) in mid-2007. I then I broke my left wrist in October 2007, and then twelve nodules developed in my left palm and on all five fingers within two months.

From what I have read I have several factors suggesting an aggressive progression of Dupuytren’s contracture: onset at age 43, family history of contracture (father, uncle, and grandfather), nodules in both hands, nodules in the thumb, and a knuckle pad. I even think I feel the slightest cord already developing in my left palm.

Two orthopedists, both hand specialists, told me there is no treatment for nodules. The second never heard of treating nodules with radiation therapy or cortisone injections, but then agreed to give me cortisone injections in each of the two nodules in my right hand.

I don’t know if I should continue to push for repeated cortisone injections, and I don’t even know how many, or how often is appropriate. Or should I immediately seek radiation treatment now?

It’s so strange to be in the position of having to make these decisions without the advice of a specialist, and really feel the need to get some advice from those of you who have already gone through this.

Thank you in advance for any information and advice you can provide!

Best regards,
Martin
(myesq)

I had similar early onset and multiple sites. In the 15 years since the first signs appeared, I've had 2 significant surgeries.

One thing I can tell you is that nodules may or may not develop into problems - a nodule can appear rather suddenly but remain relatively the same for many years. I wouldn't consider surgery for nodules. Whether RT or steroid injections prevent nodules from becoming problematic cords is an open question, but there seems to be indications that the answer is a cautious, qualified "yes".

This condition seems pretty alarming when you first find out you have it. As time passes you'll see that it's usually manageable, progresses unpredictably, and that non-surgical treatements for cords (should they develop) are opening up.

I have a nodule that has been on my palm for quite some time. Last summer it grew to twice the size. Maybe because I was moving dirt with a wheelbarrow.

My hand hurts with these nodules. My fingers are not bent at all. What should I do about these nodules? I can use the hand but need to be careful not putting too much pressure on the palm.

Hi homeboymi, Australia Calling.
Have you looked at the article relating to trauma. http://www.dupuytren-online.info look under 'dupuytren contracture scroll through related articles. I have found for a long time I have used cotton gloves with rubber facing (for grip ) when ever I do any work. You need to look after you hands cream etc before starting manual work . The manual work could be a contributing factor to accelerate the disease.For a better understanding about 'nodules', I recommend looking at the full article from "LUCK 1959 " http://www.dupuytren-online.info click on Surgery-technigues go to 'nodual fasciectomy' ( is a large pdf file . )It will give you a full appreciation of what happens to nodules and where they are located. ie some in the palm may not develope he reports cases of non growth for 20 years, You can be lucky you have not got them located on the pip joint. You say you have had the nodule for some time which grew to twice the size. Should you not have any cord formation or contraction it appears Radiotherapy is an option , and now would be the time to get advice on this option.