I was diagnosed with Dupuytren’s last week. The doctor recommended physical therapy, and so far I have received exercises to stretch the finger and a splint to hold it straight. Why doesn’t the doctor just fix it with surgery?

Dupuytren’s is not necessarily an indication for surgery unless you’re having a lot of problems using the hand. In the early stages of Dupuytren’s a more conservative approach is recommended. Once a contracture has developed (tissue does not stretch at all), exercise, splinting, and medications will not improve your situation and surgery may be needed. Your doctor will be able to best make this determination.