Last Updated on April 16, 2025 by tanya

Dupuytren’s Contracture in the Workplace

 

‘Viking Fingers’ and How to Make an Industrial Disease Claim

 

If it is linked to occupational factors, Dupuytren’s Contracture in the workplace may lead to a claim for compensation. It is a progressive hand condition which can severely affect your ability to perform daily work duties.

Sometimes it is colloquially referred to as ‘claw hand’, ‘miner’s claw’ or ‘Viking Fingers’. The condition is thought to be genetically inherited from Northern Europeans in a historical context.

Unfortunately for many employees working in a physically demanding environment, the onset of this disease may have a negative impact on their livelihood. In certain cases, the condition may be linked to employer negligence at work.

If this has happened to you or a loved one, you may be eligible to file a personal injury claim. First Personal Injury partners with lawyers who work on a ‘No Win, No Fee’ basis who can assess whether you may have a valid claim.

 

Is Dupuytren’s Contracture Progressive?

 

Dupuytren’s Contracture is a hand deformity that affects the connective tissue under the skin of the palm. Over time, this tissue thickens and forms nodules and cords that can pull one or more of your fingers into a bent position.

Once bent, your fingers cannot be fully straightened, which can impair your ability to grip, hold, or use your hand for normal functions. The ring and little fingers tend to be the most affected, though the disease can impact any finger.

The condition tends to develop over time and is generally painless in its early stages. However, as it progresses, it can lead to significant functional problems, making it difficult for you to perform tasks at work or at home.

While genetics play a leading role in the development of Dupuytren’s, some studies suggest that repetitive tasks in a manual labour environment may increase the risk of developing the disease. This has particularly been linked to vibrating tools, heavy lifting or prolonged pressure on the palms.

 

Symptoms of Dupuytren’s Contracture

 

The symptoms of Dupuytren’s Contracture typically develop gradually over months or even years. Common signs to look out for include:

 

• Nodules: Small lumps or nodules form in your palm, which may initially feel tender.
• Thickened Skin: The skin on your palm may become dimpled, puckered, or visibly thickened.
• Formation of Cords: Fibrous cords develop beneath your skin, extending from the palm into the fingers.
• Finger Contracture: Your affected fingers start to bend towards the palm and cannot be fully straightened over a prolonged period.
• Reduced Hand Function: As your fingers become permanently bent, simple tasks such as shaking hands, putting your hands in pockets, or using tools becomes increasingly difficult.

 

Since the progression is usually slow and painless in its early stages, it can often go unnoticed until significant contracture has occurred.

 

Is Dupuytren’s Contracture the Same as Claw Hand or Miner’s Claw?

 

Due to the way the fingers become permanently bent towards the palm, Dupuytren’s Contracture, also known as ‘Viking Fingers’, is sometimes colloquially referred to as “claw hand” or “miner’s claw”. These conditions all present a claw-like appearance. However, it’s important to know the difference.

Claw Hand is a general term used to describe a hand deformity where the fingers are curved or bent into a claw-like position. This can be caused by nerve damage, muscle wasting, or other neurological conditions. ‘Claw Hand’ typically affects both the fingers and sometimes the thumb and is often associated with loss of sensation and muscle weakness.

Miner’s Claw is an old-fashioned nickname that was historically used in mining communities to describe hand deformities resembling Dupuytren’s Contracture.

This was because miners spent long hours using vibrating tools and were vulnerable to conditions which caused fingers to contract. Although not a formal medical diagnosis, the term “miner’s claw” often referred to what we now recognise as Dupuytren’s Contracture.

In medical terms, Dupuytren’s Contracture differs from Claw Hand because it’s caused by the thickening and tightening of connective tissue in the palm, rather than nerve or muscle damage. It also typically affects the ring and little fingers, though other fingers can be involved as the disease progresses.

 

Dupuytren’s Contracture in the Workplace

 

This condition becomes physically disabling if you are working in physically demanding roles. You may especially feel this if you are in an environments where your hands are subject to constant strain, vibration, or repetitive movements.

For example, jobs involving pneumatic drills, jackhammers, or other vibrating tools, may put undue stress on the connective tissues in the hand.

If your employer has failed to implement adequate health and safety measures, it may be considered as negligence. This may include factors such as providing you with anti-vibration gloves and limiting exposure to vibration. Additionally offering you regular health assessments, or rotating tasks to reduce strain.

 

How to Start an Industrial Disease Claim

 

If you believe your Dupuytren’s Contracture has been caused or worsened by your work environment, you may be entitled to make an industrial disease claim. Firstly you would have to seek a formal diagnosis from a medical professional confirming the condition.

You should also gather evidence such as health and safety records from your employer and details of equipment used. You should be able to show how negligence may be linked to the injury. Witness statements from colleagues can also help.

As industrial disease claims can be complex. It is advisable to consult with a solicitor who specialises in this area and who can assess your claim. Compensation typically covers medical expenses, lost earnings and pain and suffering.

Reaching out to a trusted claims company can make a significant difference in your journey ahead. At First Personal Injury, we work with experienced lawyers who operate on a ‘No Win, No Fee’ basis and will ensure you receive all the support you need. Call us at 0333 358 2345 or contact us online at First Personal Injury to learn more.