Four-time PGA Tour winner Tim Herron, who has played in more than 500 PGA Tour events over the last 24 years, relies on his hands to make a living. After all, one of the fundamentals of a great swing is a proper grip. What many people do not know is that Tim also lives with Dupuytren’s Contracture, a little-known but progressive, potentially disfiguring hand condition affecting a layer of tissue underneath the palms, causing one or more fingers to move into a bent position. As the contracture progresses, everyday tasks ~ like shaking hands and signing your name ~ can become more difficult.
Tim likely inherited Dupuytren’s Contracture from his father as both his father and sister have the disease, so he knew what symptoms to watch for. However, because there is so little awareness about Dupuytren’s Contracture, many people mistakenly think that they have arthritis or trigger finger. And because Dupuytren’s Contracture can progress slowly, people may delay seeing a doctor until they can no longer straighten their fingers.
Before the U.S. Open (June 14th through June 17th) and Father’s Day, Tim wants to encourage your viewers to talk with their families to learn more about their health history. Tim will share his own experience (as well as that of his family members) and stress the importance of getting educated, urging everyone to learn more about Dupuytren’s Contracture and speak with a hand specialist or hand surgeon who can properly diagnose the condition if it is suspected.
