Dupuytren's Contracture
Natural Remedies

Dupuytren's Contracture - Editor's Choice

| Modified on Jun 13, 2025
Add New Post Comments
Borax

Dupuytren's contracture is a progressive hand condition that causes the fingers to curl inward due to thickened connective tissue in the palm. While medical treatments such as surgery and steroid injections are commonly used, many people seek natural remedies to manage symptoms, reduce discomfort, and improve hand flexibility.

This article explores proven natural treatments that may help alleviate symptoms and slow the progression of Dupuytren’s contracture.

Iodine, Magnesium Oil, and DMSO for Dupuytren’s Contracture

One of the most widely discussed natural remedies on Earth Clinic is the combination of iodine, magnesium oil, and DMSO. Many users report significant improvements in hand flexibility and a reduction in nodules after using this remedy consistently.

How This Remedy Works:

  • Iodine: Helps break down fibrous tissue and supports skin and cellular repair.
  • Magnesium Oil: Helps relax muscles, support connective tissue, and reduce inflammation.
  • DMSO: Enhances the absorption of iodine and magnesium deep into the tissue.

How to Use: Mix equal parts of iodine, magnesium oil, and DMSO and apply to the affected hand twice daily. Many report visible improvements within two weeks.

Borax and Boron for Dupuytren’s Contracture

Boron, a key mineral found in borax, plays a vital role in bone and connective tissue health. Some individuals with Dupuytren’s contracture have reported relief by incorporating borax water into their routine.

How to Use Borax:

  • Mix ¼ teaspoon of borax in one liter of water.
  • Drink small amounts throughout the day.
  • Monitor for symptom improvements over several weeks.

For additional information, visit Earth Clinic's Borax Remedy Guide.

Stretching and Hand Exercises

Regular hand exercises can help maintain finger flexibility and slow the progression of Dupuytren’s contracture.

Recommended Hand Exercises:

  • Gently stretch fingers apart and hold for 30 seconds.
  • Press palms against a flat surface to increase flexibility.
  • Use a soft ball to gently squeeze and release.

Perform these exercises 2-3 times daily for best results.

Anti-Inflammatory Diet for Dupuytren’s Contracture

A diet rich in anti-inflammatory foods may help slow disease progression and reduce tissue inflammation.

Best Foods to Include:

  • Fatty fish (salmon, sardines, tuna) for omega-3s.
  • Leafy greens (spinach, kale) for essential vitamins.
  • Turmeric with black pepper to enhance absorption.
  • Nuts and seeds (walnuts, chia, flaxseed) for healthy fats.

Limit processed foods, refined sugar, and excessive alcohol, as they may worsen symptoms.

Massage Therapy

Massage therapy can improve circulation, reduce stiffness, and relieve tension in the hand.

How to Use Massage Therapy:

  • Apply castor oil or magnesium oil to the affected area.
  • Gently massage in circular motions for 5-10 minutes.
  • Repeat twice daily for best results.

Supplements for Dupuytren’s Contracture

Several natural supplements may support connective tissue repair and reduce inflammation.

  • Turmeric (Curcumin): Reduces inflammation and supports joint health.
  • Fish Oil (Omega-3): Improves tissue flexibility and reduces stiffness.
  • Vitamin D3: Supports immune function and musculoskeletal health.
  • MSM (Methylsulfonylmethane): Aids in tissue repair and reduces stiffness.

Always consult a healthcare professional before starting new supplements.

Heat Therapy for Pain Relief

Applying heat therapy can help relax stiff tendons and ease discomfort.

Methods for Heat Therapy:

  • Use a warm compress for 10-15 minutes.
  • Soak hands in warm water with Epsom salt.
  • Apply a heated rice sock to the affected hand.

Acupuncture for Dupuytren’s Contracture

Acupuncture may help improve circulation and reduce inflammation in the hand.

How to Use Acupuncture:

  • Seek a licensed acupuncturist for treatment.
  • Attend regular sessions to maintain benefits.
  • Combine acupuncture with massage and stretching for best results.

Conclusion

Managing Dupuytren’s contracture naturally requires a comprehensive approach, including topical treatments, dietary changes, exercises, supplements, and therapy techniques.

While natural remedies can offer relief, they should complement—not replace—traditional medical treatments. Always consult a healthcare provider before trying new treatments.

Please continue reading below to see how Earth Clinic readers have successfully used these remedies for Dupuytren’s contracture. Have you tried any of these treatments? We invite you to share your experience in the comments below!

Related Links:

Natural Remedies for Trigger Finger (Stenosing Tenosynovitis)
The Powerful Health Benefits of Borax: Natural Remedy for Wellness


The comments below reflect the personal experiences and opinions of readers and do not represent medical advice or the views of this website. The information shared has not been evaluated by the FDA and is not intended to diagnose, treat, or prevent any disease or health condition. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for medical concerns.

Vitamin E

Posted by Brenda (Regina, SK Canada) on 11/20/2021
★★★★★

Editor's Choice

I started getting a lump on my hand just below my middle finger and discovered I had Dupuytren's Contracture. I read Vitamin E could help with this problem. I started to take 800 IU of Vitamin E. By the third day the lump was was just about gone. I couldn't believe how fast it worked. Vit E is the only change I made.


Iodine, Magnesium and DMSO

Posted by Jean (Kentucky) on 03/11/2017 27 posts
★★★★★

Editor's Choice

My husband has Dupuytren's contracture as well. He applies a mixture of iodine, magnesium oil and dmso to his hand twice a day and just rubs it in. The knots are about gone and his hand is flexible. This is after about two weeks of consistent application of the mixture. I believe the iodine is the key. Then the dmso helps drive the iodine further into the skin and the magnesium oil helps keep it moist. It seems like a miracle to him. His doctor has Dupuytren's and had surgery. Now the doctor has a long scar across the palm of his hand. Generally the knots return within a year and apparently consistent surgery would be the remedy. I think a little mixture to soften and prevent it is more sensible, cheaper and keeps it at bay. I'm sure diet helps as well.


Dietary Changes

Posted by Peter (Northern California) on 03/09/2017
★★★★★

Editor's Choice

I am Eastern European who lives in California. I was diagnosed with Dupuytren's Contracture on my left hand palm about 5 years ago at age 48. It was progressing rapidly with growing knot on my palm and ring finger. Over two years ago I started low carb diet and about 16 months ago I got even stricter and begin Ketogenic diet. Amazingly within couple of months knots on my hand went down as well as contracture and pain. Looks like knots continue getting smaller and there is absolutely no pain or contracture. I can freely move my fingers and my hand looks normal except for small area on the palm where there is still small visible knot. Truly amazing considering that my doctor told that contractures will get worse and worse and eventually will have to operate on it. I truly believe that keto diet is the cause for improvement as I experienced other benefits in my health as well.


Iodoral

Posted by Emma (Centralia, Illinois) on 12/28/2016 11 posts
★★★★★

Editor's Choice

When I was first diagnosed with Dupuytren's Contracture in my left hand, I had about four tumors in the palm of my hand. My doctor said there was nothing he could do. I knew better. Natural is the way to go. Since I knew iodine with iodide combination (Iodoral) shrinks tumors, I simply bought some and took 1 in the morning, 12.5 mg., and I no longer have that problem. My fingers never turned in and the tumors are gone. I must take every day anyway, due to hypothyroidism.


Magnesium

Posted by Tony (Pittsburgh) on 07/03/2015
★★★★★

Editor's Choice

Hi, I have been suffering from a somewhat mild case of Dupuytrins Contracture in my left hand. I was told by a Health food store owner to try Magnesium. I started with the pills but then tried Magnesium Oil and started rubbing it in my hands once a day. Just a small amount. Well now I do not have any symptoms of the tightness and ripping feeling and pain in the morning I use to have every morning when I woke up. I stopped using it for a while and the symptoms came back. Started again and the symptoms went away again. Hey it's worth a shot for anyone. Magnesium oil is cheap. Lots of ways to get Magnesium. Pills, Oil and Epson Salts(Epson Salts are also fantastic in your Gardens).. all super cheap.



Advertisement