What's this lump in my palm?

It is important that any lump or bump in your hand or arm is investigated by your doctor.
Commonly, however a lump in the palm of the hand is nothing to be concerned about.

A lump in the palm can be the first symptom that people notice of Dupuytren's Disease. Dupuytren's Disease is not dangerous, but it can make using the hand difficult as the disease progresses.  

Dupuytren's Disease is a condition where thick tissues (fascia) under the skin on the palm contract over time. Initially a lump or nodule in the palm develops, people might feel this or see the skin over the lump puckering. It may be painful to hold onto the golf club, but otherwise non problematic.

This may be followed by difficulty straightening the finger (usually the little or ring finger or the thumb). This difficulty is caused by further contracting of the fascia and development of cords or bands into the fingers. These bands make straightening the finger increasingly difficult. People often say it becomes difficult getting something out of their pocket because the ring or little finger get stuck. Or they are embarrassed to shake hands as the fingers stay curled over.

The progression from lump in the palm to bent over fingers can occur rapidly or over several months or many years. 
Dupuytren's disease is more common in men than women, and usually occurs in the sixth decade of life.

If you suspect you have Dupuytren's Disease, we recommend discussing your options with a Hand Surgeon. Hand Therapy can not help slow down the progression of the disease. We can, however, help you get the best outcomes following interventions from your Surgeon. 

​Call us 08 8339 HAND