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Clear, Evidence-Led Reading on Benign Conditions

Articles and videos to help patients and referrers understand the conditions Dr Shaffer treats, and where low-dose radiotherapy fits. Choose a condition to see its articles and video.

5 May 2026 5 min read

What Is Dupuytren’s Disease?

Dupuytren’s disease is a common, non-cancerous condition that affects the tissue beneath the skin of the palm. It often begins with small lumps and can gradually lead to finger contracture. This guide explains the stages, causes, and treatment options so you know what to expect and when to act.

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9 September 2026 6 min read

Dupuytren’s Contracture: What Is It? Why Does It Happen? What Does It Mean for Me?

Understand what a Dupuytren’s contracture is, why it develops, and what it means for your hand. Learn the early signs and when treatment may help.

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17 March 2026 8 min read

What Are These Lumps in My Hands?

Finding a lump in your hand can feel alarming, but most are harmless. From arthritis-related bony lumps and ganglion cysts to Dupuytren’s disease, this guide explains the common causes, key differences, and when you should seek medical advice.

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31 March 2026 5 min read

A Lump in the Palm When You Play Golf: Is It Just Age, or Something More?

A small lump in the palm may seem like normal wear and tear from years of golf, but it could be an early sign of Dupuytren’s disease. This article explains what to look for, why it happens, and when to seek treatment to maintain hand function and continue enjoying the game.

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27 March 2026 4 min read

A Lump in the Palm for Surgeons and Dentists: What It Means and Why It Matters

If you’re a surgeon or dentist and notice a lump in your palm, even subtle changes can matter. While often painless, it may be an early sign of Dupuytren’s disease. Understanding progression and getting early assessment can help protect long-term hand precision and function.

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27 March 2026 5 min read

Lumps in the Palm From CrossFit: Is It Just a Callus or Something Else?

If you train regularly in CrossFit, calluses are expected—but a firm lump under the skin may be something different. This guide explains how to tell the difference between a callus and early Dupuytren’s disease, why it can develop, and what you can do without stopping training.

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27 March 2026 6 min read

My Parent Has Dupuytren’s and I’ve Found a Lump — What Should I Do?

If you’ve found a lump in your hand and have a family history of Dupuytren’s disease, it’s natural to worry. While the condition often runs in families, it doesn’t always progress the same way. This guide explains early signs, risk factors, and when to monitor or consider treatment.

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11 June 2026 7 min read

My Dupuytren’s Started After an Injury or Operation. Is That a Coincidence?

Did your Dupuytren’s start after an injury or operation? Dr Richard Shaffer explains what research shows about trauma as a trigger and what to do next.

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3 June 2026 7 min read

Is Dupuytren’s Disease Painful? What to Expect

In this blog, we will discuss the different types of pain and tenderness that can occur in Dupuytren’s disease, why they happen, how they typically change over time, and when treatment may help.

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4 February 2026 8 min read

What Makes Dupuytren’s Disease Worse?

Dupuytren’s disease can worsen due to a combination of genetics, age, health conditions, lifestyle habits, and repeated hand stress. Understanding these factors helps identify early warning signs, manage risks such as smoking or diabetes, and take steps that may slow progression and preserve long-term hand function.

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2 September 2025 6 min read

Dupuytren’s Contracture and Trigger Finger: Are They Connected?

Dupuytren’s contracture and trigger finger are traditionally described as separate hand conditions, but patients and clinicians often see them occur together. This article explores whether that overlap is coincidence or a true biological connection. Drawing on clinical experience and key research evidence, it explains how shared risk factors, mechanical interaction, and inflammation may link the two conditions, and why recognising this association is important for accurate diagnosis, treatment planning, and patient reassurance.

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11 June 2026 5 min read

Can Women Get Dupuytren’s Disease? Why Many Women Don’t Fit the Typical Picture

Can women get Dupuytren’s disease? Yes. Dr Richard Shaffer explains how common it is in women, the myths, and what to do if you notice a lump.

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19 February 2026 4 min read

Does Playing Field Hockey Increase the Risk of Dupuytren’s Disease?

A Dutch clinical study found Dupuytren’s disease to be significantly more common in older male field hockey players than in non-players. This article explains the findings, explores vibration and hand trauma as possible contributors, and outlines practical steps players can take to protect their hands while continuing to enjoy the sport.

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19 February 2026 5 min read

Dupuytren’s Disease in Musicians: Why Timing Matters

Musicians place extraordinary demands on their hands. In Dupuytren’s disease, even subtle changes in hand span or control can have outsized effects on performance. This article explains why timing matters, why musicians notice problems earlier, and how early, carefully chosen treatment can help preserve function before irreversible loss occurs.

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2 September 2025 6 min read

Dupuytren’s Disease and Rock Climbing: What Climbers Need to Know

Blog Excerpt Dupuytren’s disease is significantly more common in climbers than in the general population, often appearing earlier and progressing more aggressively due to the unique stresses climbing places on the hands. This article explores why climbers are at higher risk, how Dupuytren’s can affect grip and performance, and why recognising early signs is crucial. It also explains treatment options at each stage of the disease, highlighting the role of early radiotherapy in preventing progression and helping climbers continue the sport they love.

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17 March 2026 7 min read

Viking Disease or Something Far Older? What Genetics Reveals About Dupuytren’s

Viking disease is a common nickname for Dupuytren’s disease, but genetic research shows the condition predates the Vikings by thousands of years. Studies now trace the strongest risk factors to Neanderthal DNA rather than Viking ancestry.

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13 March 2026 9 min read

Famous People With Dupuytren’s Disease

Several well-known public figures have lived and worked with Dupuytren’s disease, including Bill Nighy, Sir Steve Redgrave, and Margaret Thatcher. Their stories show how people manage the condition across different careers and lifestyles.

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27 May 2026 8 min read

Why Me? Fear, Anxiety and Getting Clarity After a Dupuytren’s Diagnosis

If you’ve noticed a lump or cord in your palm and have spent the past few weeks quietly worrying, you are in good company.

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28 November 2025 10 min read

Guide to Dupuytren’s Disease Treatments

Dupuytren’s disease progresses differently for everyone, ranging from stable nodules that cause little trouble to tightening cords that bend the fingers and interfere with daily life. This comprehensive guide explains all current treatment options, from observation and hand therapy to radiotherapy, minimally invasive procedures, and surgery. It outlines when each approach is appropriate, the benefits and limitations of each, and why radiotherapy plays a unique role in slowing or stopping early-stage disease before contractures develop.

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3 June 2026 8 min read

Which Doctor Should I See About My Dupuytren’s Disease?

If you have recently been diagnosed with Dupuytren’s disease, or you have found a lump in your palm and are trying to work out what to do next, one of the first questions is often surprisingly simple: which doctor should I actually see?

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6 April 2026 3 min read

Do You Need a GP Referral to See a Dupuytren’s Specialist If You’re Paying Privately?

If you’re considering treatment for Dupuytren’s disease, you may wonder whether a GP referral is required. In private practice, you can usually book directly without a referral. This guide explains how self-referral works, when a GP referral is needed, and what happens after booking your consultation.

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31 March 2026 6 min read

Early Dupuytren’s: Should You Wait or Consider Radiotherapy?

Early Dupuytren’s disease can be unpredictable—some cases remain stable, while others progress. This guide explains how to recognise changes, when to monitor, and when radiotherapy may be the right option to prevent worsening symptoms.

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7 May 2026 6 min read

What Questions Should You Ask Your Doctor About Dupuytren’s Disease?

Dupuytren’s disease can be confusing because patients often receive different advice depending on which specialist they see. Knowing the right questions to ask can help you understand whether your condition is early or advanced, explore treatment options such as radiotherapy or surgery, and make informed decisions about managing progression and contracture.

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11 March 2025 5 min read

When Is It Too Early for Radiotherapy for Dupuytren’s Disease?

Learn how disease stage, progression and symptoms can influence the timing of radiotherapy, with guidance from Dr Richard Shaffer.

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10 August 2026 8 min read

Is It Too Early or Too Late for Radiotherapy? The Timing Question Answered

Is it too early or too late for Dupuytren’s radiotherapy? Dr Richard Shaffer explains the timing window, the signs that matter, and when to get assessed.

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4 February 2026 7 min read

Surgery vs Radiotherapy for Dupuytren’s Contracture

Surgery and radiotherapy treat Dupuytren’s contracture at different stages of the disease. Surgery corrects established finger contractures, while radiotherapy is most effective early, helping slow progression and reduce the risk of contracture. Understanding timing, benefits, and limitations helps patients choose the most suitable treatment path.

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12 August 2026 7 min read

Radiotherapy for Dupuytren’s Disease: What Does the Evidence Show?

Radiotherapy is effective for early Dupuytren’s disease, reducing the risk of the disease getting worse and the need for later surgery by more than three times.

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27 February 2026 5 min read

What If Dupuytren’s Treatment Isn’t Available Locally?

Many patients worry that living far from a specialist centre will prevent them from accessing treatment for Dupuytren’s disease. This guide explains how Dupuytren’s UK makes radiotherapy accessible nationwide through central consultation, carefully planned treatment, and delivery closer to home wherever possible.

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6 April 2026 4 min read

My GP Said “Nothing Can Be Done Until Your Fingers Are Bent”: What to Do When the NHS Won’t Help

If you’ve been told that nothing can be done for Dupuytren’s disease until your fingers are bent, you’re not alone. This guide explains why this advice is common in the NHS, what it actually means, and how to explore early assessment and treatment options.

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24 February 2026 4 min read

Why Is Radiotherapy for Dupuytren’s Disease Not Available on the NHS?

Radiotherapy for early Dupuytren’s disease can slow progression and preserve hand function, yet it is not routinely available on the NHS. This article explains how treatments are assessed by NICE, why evidence structure and funding pressures matter, and why most patients currently access this treatment privately despite supportive clinical data.

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3 June 2026 5 min read

How Does Radiotherapy for Dupuytren’s Disease Work? What Happens at Each Session?

This article walks through the process step by step, so you know exactly what to expect from the consultation through to the treatment sessions themselves.

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30 December 2025 6 min read

Dupuytren’s Radiotherapy: What to Expect at Your First Appointment

If you’ve been referred for assessment of Dupuytren’s disease, it’s natural to wonder what happens at your first appointment and how decisions about treatment are made. This article explains what to expect during a Dupuytren’s disease consultation, why careful examination and timing matter, and how we decide whether radiotherapy is the right option — now, later, or not at all — based on your symptoms, hand function, and progression of the condition.

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6 April 2026 5 min read

Is Radiotherapy for Dupuytren’s Safe? Radiation Dose and Side Effects Explained

Is radiotherapy safe for Dupuytren’s disease? This guide explains the radiation dose used, common short- and long-term side effects, and the real level of cancer risk so you can make an informed decision about treatment.

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14 March 2025 3 min read

Radiotherapy Treatment: Electrons vs X-Rays

I have therefore written this blog post to write about how they both work, with particular notes on the similarities and differences between them.

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27 March 2026 3 min read

Radiotherapy Aftercare for Dupuytren’s and Ledderhose Disease

Radiotherapy for Dupuytren’s and Ledderhose disease is usually well tolerated, but proper aftercare is important. This guide explains common skin changes, how to care for treated areas, activity precautions, and what to expect during recovery.

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3 June 2026 6 min read

Can You Have Radiotherapy More Than Once for Dupuytren’s Disease?

This is something I get asked by patients who had radiotherapy years ago and are now noticing new nodules or cords.

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27 February 2026 5 min read

Self‑Pay Costs for Dupuytren’s Radiotherapy at Dupuytren’s UK

How much does private radiotherapy for Dupuytren’s disease cost? This guide explains consultation fees, full treatment package pricing, costs for multiple hands or feet, and what is included in self-pay care at Dupuytren’s UK.

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4 May 2026 6 min read

Travelling to the UK for Dupuytren’s Radiotherapy: A Practical Guide for International Patients

If you’re considering radiotherapy for Dupuytren’s or Ledderhose disease and travelling from overseas, this guide explains everything from video consultations and treatment scheduling to planning your stay in London. Learn how Dupuytren’s UK streamlines the process to reduce travel time while maintaining high-quality care.

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6 April 2026 3 min read

Does Health Insurance Cover Dupuytren’s Radiotherapy? Bupa, AXA, Vitality and More

Does private medical insurance cover radiotherapy for Dupuytren’s disease? Coverage varies between providers like Bupa, AXA, and Vitality. This guide explains what’s typically covered, how to get authorisation, and what to do if treatment isn’t included.

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6 April 2026 4 min read

How to Get Radiotherapy for Dupuytren’s Through Private Insurance (Step-By-Step Guide)

Trying to get radiotherapy for Dupuytren’s disease through private insurance? This step-by-step guide explains how to check coverage, get a referral, secure consultation approval, and apply for treatment authorisation.

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19 July 2025 3 min read

Does Radiotherapy After Surgery Reduce Dupuytren’s Recurrence?

Radiotherapy is well established in early-stage Dupuytren’s disease, but its role after surgery is now gaining attention. This retrospective study explores whether adding radiotherapy soon after surgical release can reduce recurrence rates in Dupuytren’s contracture. With long-term follow-up and favourable safety and satisfaction outcomes, the findings suggest that post-operative radiotherapy may be a valuable adjunct in selected patients while the medical community awaits definitive results from ongoing randomised trials.

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6 August 2025 4 min read

Can Radiotherapy After Contracture Release Help Prevent Contracture Recurrence?

Recurrence after Dupuytren’s contracture release is common, particularly following minimally invasive procedures. This article summarises a retrospective study examining whether adding radiotherapy shortly after contracture release can reduce the risk of recurrence. The findings suggest that post-interventional radiotherapy is safe, well tolerated, and may significantly lower re-contracture rates—especially when combined with needle aponeurotomy—highlighting a promising strategy to improve long-term outcomes while preserving the benefits of less invasive treatments.

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1 July 2026 5 min read

Can I Have a Virtual Consultation for Dupuytren’s Disease?

Many patients live too far away to easily reach the clinic, sometimes overseas. A virtual consultation can often help work out whether radiotherapy is likely to suit your Dupuytren’s disease before you commit to travelling. Here is how it works, how accurate it is, and where it has its limits.

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11 June 2026 6 min read

Where Can I Get Radiotherapy for Dupuytren’s and Ledderhose Disease? A Guide to Clinic Locations

If you are considering radiotherapy for Dupuytren’s and Ledderhose disease, one of the first questions is often where treatment is actually available. In this blog, I will explain where I currently see patients, how the different clinic networks work, where treatment can be delivered, and what options exist if you live a long way…

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10 March 2025 4 min read

NHS Dupuytren’s Treatment Still Patchy, Says Dr Shaffer in Daily Mail

Patients with a debilitating hand condition are missing out on a simple treatment that could spare them painful surgery, experts have warned.

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