Dupuytren's and lifting

Training Q&A [Moderated]
1

Hi Dr.s

I was wondering if you have any thoughts regarding Dupuytren’s in respect to training. I was diagnosed with Dupuytren’s a little over a year ago. I first noticed the contractures during an intense block of training. I have contractures I’m both my hands, luckily so far, the contractures have not impeded the range of motion/ functionality of my hands yet. I also don’t want to do anything that would aggravate the condition. I do notice I have discomfort in both hands at the sites of the contractures if I push pulling exercises pretty hard, and when I take a break from training the discomfort subsides.

I don’t want to be defined by this disease, but I also don’t want to do any unnecessary movements to aggravate/accelerate the condition. I would love to continue to train and make any modifications necessary.

I’ve never thrown up any crazy good numbers but I do prefer to perform barbell lifts for lower reps, higher weight, but I’m open to other training styles to continue a healthy lifestyle. Thank you!

2

I’m not aware of compelling evidence to suggest that any particular style of training would aggravate or accelerate the condition.

The benefits of training on your overall health would likely outweigh any such risks if they did exist, particularly given that there are other treatments available for the condition when it is more progressive/limiting (injection therapies, surgical release, etc.).