Dupuytren's contracture is a hand condition that causes the fingers to bend towards the palm due to thickening and shortening of the tissue beneath the skin. This tissue, known as the palmar fascia, forms nodules and cords that can restrict finger movement, making it difficult to fully extend the affected fingers. The exact cause of Dupuytren's contracture is not well understood, but it is more common in older adults, particularly men of Northern European descent. Risk factors include a family history of the condition, diabetes, and certain lifestyle factors such as smoking. Treatment options range from monitoring to surgical intervention, depending on the severity.