Celebrating the First-Ever National Hand Health Month

The first National Hand Health Month celebrating the power and importance of our hands will launch this September.

The observance shines a spotlight on the vital role our hands play in daily life, raises awareness about hand health and conditions like Dupuytren’s contracture, and empowers people to take charge of their hand health through education, early action, and support.

Our hands are essential to nearly everything we do. From morning routines to evening hobbies, they help us move through life with purpose and connection. Now imagine what everyday life would feel like if your hands didn’t function properly.

Think about how often you rely on your hands for tasks like:

• • Combing your hair
  • Shaking someone’s hand
  • Typing on a computer
  • Making dinner
  • Enjoying your favorite hobby

During Hand Health Month, we’re reminded to care for our hands, recognize early signs of potential conditions, and take action before symptoms progress.

One such condition is Dupuytren’s contracture, which is a lifelong condition that may get worse over time. It’s caused by a buildup of collagen in the hand, which forms a rope-like cord that pulls fingers toward the palm so they can’t be straightened. As Dupuytren’s contracture progresses, it may become difficult for individuals to use their hand(s) for daily tasks and activities.^1,2 It affects an estimated 13 million Americans.^3,4*

Whether you’re learning about hand health for the first time or already navigating symptoms, there are steps you can take this month to protect your hands and empower others to do the same.

Ready to take action? Try these three ways to support hand health during Hand Health Month.

1. Take the Tabletop Test

The Tabletop Test is a simple way to see if someone may have Dupuytren’s contracture.² People who are unable to lay their hand flat against a tabletop should talk to a hand specialist and ask about Dupuytren’s contracture.

Watch how to take the Tabletop Test here.

2. Talk Hand Health During a Reddit AMA

Join leading hand specialist Dr. Damon Adamany and a real patient, Steve, for a Reddit “Ask Me Anything” (AMA) on Wednesday, September 17 at 3 p.m. ET. Dr. Adamany will answer user questions about hand health and Dupuytren’s contracture, and Steve will share his personal journey and experience with a nonsurgical treatment.

Be part of the conversation by submitting your questions in advance or joining the live AMA here!

3. Find a Hand Specialist

If you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms like finger stiffness or difficulty laying hands flat, don’t wait to take the next step. Early action can make a meaningful difference. Visit handhealthtreatment.com to connect with a nearby hand specialist; learn about available treatment options, including nonsurgical approaches; and take charge of your hand health today.

* Dupuytren’s contracture prevalence estimation calculation in the U.S.: Average Dupuytren's contracture prevalence in the U.S. (5%) multiplied by U.S. adult population (~258 million adults per 2020 U.S. Census data) = ~13 million.

References 

1. Hurst LC, Badalamente MA, Hentz VR, et al. Injectable collagenase clostridium histolyticum for Dupuytren’s contracture. N Engl J Med. 2009;361(10),968-979.
2. Bayat A, McGrouther DA. Management of Dupuytren’s disease--clear advice for an elusive condition. Ann R Coll Surg Engl. 2006;88(1):3-8.
3. MedlinePlus Genetics. Dupuytren contracture. National Library of Medicine. Updated April 1, 2019. Accessed August 15, 2025. https://medlineplus.gov/genetics/condition/dupuytren-contracture
4. Ogunwole SU, Rabe MA, Roberts AW, Caplan Z. United States adult population grew faster than nation’s total population from 2010 to 2020. U.S. Census Bureau. Published August 12, 2021. Accessed August 15, 2025. https://www.census.gov/library/stories/2021/08/united-states-adult-population-grew-faster-than-nations-total-population-from-2010-to-2020.html