Catherine:
This is frequently the way Dupuytrens begins. Sometimes it does not progress beyond the nodules, but in other instances it can advance rapidly. The progression, as well as treatments, seems to vary significantly among individuals. However, there are some bits of advice that seem to be common (avoid vitamin C, moderate alcohol consumption, etc). I encourage you to read broadly... look back through postings on this site and you will find a broad array of experiences and information, as well as links to other helpful sites. Don't hesitate to ask questions or to post your experiences.

Good luck with it.

Tom M

Yes, you have the classic sign: the nodule.
My GP and another doctor didn't know anything about DC; they referred me to a rheumatologist and the DC diagnosis only occurred by him. He said to lay off using the computer for hours at a time at work...

Jan,

You've come to the right place! You will learn much by reading these posts. Also, be sure to read the info on

http://jvm.com/wstagner/main.htm

Chances are you may never need a procedure to correct a "contracture" of your fingers. Just leave the bump alone! But if you do, a new and less invasive procedure called "NA" is now being performed in the US. See:

http://www.handcenter.org/

Avoid Surgery at all costs

God bless,

Randy

i have lumps in my right palm near the M. first one came this summer below the middle finger. within a couple of months a second one in the M below my ring finger. now one between the second one and the ring finger. surgeon says when the dupuytrin's is bad enough we will operate. I am an artis and, like everyone else, do not want to loose use of my hands. for several days I have been rubbing castor oil on them and, though lumps are smaller (I think), there'is more pain and stiffness.

could someone tell me if a "ganglion problem" is the same as dupuytrin's. Another artist friend said she had ganglion problems and they went away.

thank you so much for any help

mary

Paddleford,
My symptoms are very similar to yours. I was diagnosed with Dupuytren's. In the morning my hands are so stiff I can't bend my fingers. If I take a nap the same thing happens. After a while there is improvement, but right hand is the worst. I can't make a fist. No contracture yet, but numerous nodules and a chord in right palm. I thought it was arthritis but doctor says it's DC.