Natural Remedies for Dupuytren's Contracture: A Holistic Approach

| Modified on Mar 09, 2024
Borax

Dupuytren's contracture, a hand condition that gradually causes fingers to curl inwards, can be both uncomfortable and limiting. While traditional medical treatments like surgery or steroid injections are commonly used, many individuals seek natural remedies as a complementary approach to manage this condition. This article delves into various natural treatments that can help alleviate the symptoms of Dupuytren's contracture.

Popular Remedy Combination for Dupuytren's Contracture: Iodine, Magnesium, and DMSO

One of the most popular remedy combinations for Dupuytren's contracture on Earth Clinic is a blend of iodine, magnesium oil, and DMSO (dimethyl sulfoxide). This combination has garnered significant attention and positive feedback from users, including a noteworthy post by Jean from Kentucky.

Jean reports that her husband, who has Dupuytren's contracture, experienced remarkable improvements after applying a mixture of iodine, magnesium oil, and DMSO to his hand twice daily. Within approximately two weeks of consistent application, the knots in his hand significantly reduced, and his hand became more flexible.

How the Remedy Works

  • Iodine: Believed to be a key component in this remedy, iodine is known for its potential benefits in skin and tissue health.
  • DMSO: This compound is thought to enhance the absorption of iodine into the skin, thereby increasing its effectiveness.
  • Magnesium Oil: It helps in keeping the skin moisturized and may also contribute to tissue health.

Jean compares this natural approach favorably against surgical interventions, noting that surgery often leads to scarring and the recurrence of knots. She suggests that using this mixture can be a more sensible, cost-effective, and non-invasive option for managing Dupuytren's contracture.

The Borax Protocol

Dupuytren's contracture can benefit from the use of borax, particularly due to its boron content. Boron, a mineral found in borax, plays a crucial role in bone and joint health. It is believed to aid in calcium integration into the cartilage and bone, potentially alleviating symptoms associated with conditions like Dupuytren's contracture. While traditional treatments remain the primary approach, incorporating borax as a natural remedy may offer supportive benefits in managing this hand condition.

Learn more about the borax protocol here.

Stretching and Gentle Exercises

One of the most effective natural methods to manage Dupuytren's contracture is regular stretching and gentle hand exercises. These exercises can help maintain flexibility in the fingers and slow the progression of the condition. It's important to perform these exercises carefully and consistently, and if possible, under the guidance of a physical therapist or hand specialist.

Anti-Inflammatory Diet

Inflammation can exacerbate the symptoms of Dupuytren's contracture. Adopting an anti-inflammatory diet, rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and omega-3 fatty acids, can help reduce inflammation. Foods like salmon, flaxseeds, walnuts, berries, and leafy greens are excellent choices. Reducing the intake of processed foods, sugars, and red meats can also be beneficial.

Massage Therapy

Massage therapy can be a soothing way to manage the symptoms of Dupuytren's contracture. Gentle massage can improve circulation, reduce stiffness, and provide relief from discomfort. It's essential to seek a therapist experienced in handling Dupuytren's contracture to ensure the massage is done safely and effectively.

Natural Anti-Inflammatory Supplements

Certain supplements have anti-inflammatory properties that can help in managing Dupuytren's contracture. Turmeric, known for its active compound curcumin, and fish oil supplements rich in omega-3 fatty acids, are popular choices. However, it's crucial to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new supplements.

Heat Therapy

Applying heat to the affected hand can help relax the muscles and tendons, providing relief from pain and stiffness. This can be done using warm compresses or by soaking the hand in warm water. Heat therapy should be used cautiously and not on inflamed or injured skin.

Acupuncture

Acupuncture, a traditional Chinese medicine practice, involves inserting thin needles into specific points on the body. It can help relieve pain and improve mobility in individuals with Dupuytren's contracture. It's important to seek treatment from a licensed and experienced acupuncturist.

Conclusion

While natural remedies can offer relief and support in managing Dupuytren's contracture, they should complement, not replace, traditional medical treatments. Always consult with healthcare professionals to ensure a coordinated and safe approach to managing this condition. Remember, every individual's experience with Dupuytren's contracture is unique, and what works for one person may not be suitable for another.

Related Links:

Borax: Unlocking the Health Benefits of a Natural Compound
Effective Natural Arthritis Remedies: Relief & Healing
Effective Natural Remedies for Trigger Finger Relief




Acupuncture

1 User Review
5 star (1) 
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Posted by Mark Hardy (England) on 03/24/2018
★★★★★

Hi, my name is Mark Hardy and I am 66 years old. A month ago I was diagnosed with Dupuytrens Constricture affecting the middle finger of my left hand. I was unable to straighten the finger. I have had two acupuncture treatments over a two week period and whilst the lumps have not totally gone, I do have full mobility of the finger again. The lumps have definitely reduced in size. The acupuncturist inserted needles both sides of the tendon and past a small electrical current through them The treatment was not painful, just a little strange. I am having one more treatment next week and then every couple of months depending on the condition. I am, needless to say, delighted with the results.

Replied by Oz
(Dartmoor uk)
07/02/2023

Hi Mark, Dupuytrens as far as I know does not affect the middle finger. Just the ring and pinky. It maybe why u have a cure because as far as I know there is no known cure for Dupuytrens and in my extensive research the only thing one can do is have invasive interventions which work for a few but not for most, including myself.

tom
(epping, n.h.)
02/20/2024

i only had it in my right hand pinky, and had surgery. within 2 months it had migrated to the middle finger of same hand. surgery or trauma to the hand can trigger more dupuytren's. over the past few years it has migrated to all fingers in my left hand. avoiding more surgery because of fear it will trigger more. that's why I am on this site lookin for help.

Art
(California)
02/20/2024
2119 posts

Hi Tom,

I was looking at several aspects of Dupuytren's Contracture(DC) that help the disease to progress. These are increased TGF-beta1 levels leading to increased oxidative stress levels and fibrosis and elevated inflammatory markers as well as increased fibroblast proliferation.

In studies for other diseases, melatonin has shown the ability to work against these processes. There are no studies showing that melatonin can work against Dupuytren's, however studies suggest that melatonin can work against mechanisms which seem to feed the disease process of DC.

Given the above it seems like melatonin lotion may be at least worth discussing with your doctor for consideration for your DC. The following link explains how my friends make melatonin lotion :

https://www.earthclinic.com/supplements/topical-melatonin-pain-relief-success-stories.html

The lotion is mainly used for pain relief, but some friends have reported relief for other health issues besides pain. It is non-invasive, easy to make, easy to apply sparingly twice a day and effective for at least pain relief.

If you and your doctor decide to try it for your DC, please come back and let us know if it is helpful for relieving your DC.

Art


Alkalize

1 User Review
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Posted by Yumiko (Australia) on 02/07/2020
★★★★★

Dupuytren's Contracture:

If you have pain in other part of joints you are very acidic. You need to alkalize your body by changing your life style. Eat a lot of raw vegetables, stop smoking and drinking which are also very acidic. Drink a lot of water. Taking bicarb soda and very small amount of borax help you to also alkalize your body.Stop anything eating any sweet or drinks, that include honey and fruit juice.


Bromelain

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Posted by Harvey K. (Sarasota, FL) on 02/11/2021
★★★★★

Occasionally people call or email me because they have read about using Wan Hua Oil for Dupuytren's contracture in an article I wrote called Beyond Ben Gay on my website. I've since learned from patients that taking 500 mg. of Bromelain twice a day works very, very well.

For the past five years that is what I've recommended to patients with great success, and this has obviated the need for me to treat them with acupuncture, a significant time savings for me and costs savings to them. That said, I do strongly endorse the protocol of using magnesium oil, iodine as Lugol solution, and DMSO. That will speed up the healing process from the outside as the bromelain works from the inside. I also endorse the Traditional Chinese Medicine perspective that tendons reflect the health of the liver, so do be kind to your liver, and for God's sake, be careful hammering or doing other percussive activities!


CBD Oil + Massage

2 User Reviews
5 star (1) 
  50%
4 star (1) 
  50%

Posted by Twinkytoze (Sw Ontario) on 03/06/2022
★★★★☆

CBD Oil plus Massage for Dupuytren's Contracture

I believe mine is in the early stages and was pointed out to me by my massage therapist who specializes in Chinese medicine and reflexology.

I believe the condition is linked to an autoimmune disorder, in my case Rheumatoid Arthritis. I thought the pain and stiffness were just the beginning of the formation of arthritic nodes, but my therapist said no, if I let it go on, my fingers would bend inwards and would not be able to be released. I thought "Oh nuts. Dupuytrens" and got right on it.

I began with applying a drop of CBD oil to the nodes and working it in by massage. At first it hurt a lot, and the nodes were quite pronounced and hard. But the morning after I could see they were quite reduced in size and seemed to be softening. Also the pain was quite noticeably reduced.

I am continuing with the CBD and massage. I use a small rounded pebble to work between my palms. I'm on day four of this course of therapy and the nodes are about 80% reduced in size and pain level.

80% hence 4 stars not 5. Will continue.

Replied by Twinkytoze
(Sw Ontario)
03/14/2022

Update 03/14/2022: Homeopathics and Stretching added

So I added to the CBD oil the homeopathic frequencies of Rhus tox and Cholocynthis, plus the frequency of the Dupuytrens nosode. I have a frequency converter, so I was able to do this myself. I take 1ml orally twice a day and rub 4 drops into the palms 3-4x daily massaging the nodes and cords.

The node on my left palm under the second finger has softened and flattened almost completely and the 1/4" "cord" extending below it has also softened and almost disappeared. A tiny node that was forming at the base of the cord has almost disappeared.

On the right hand the node under the ring finger is still pronounced but probably because it's on the dominant hand it doesn't get as much massage.

I began gentle stretching two or three times a day a week ago. Interlacing fingers and then extending palms outwards at arms length. When I began, the "fire" in the palms of the hands was quite intense. Tingling and itching persisted for hours afterwards.

After a week of stretching, the "fire" is much less and the extension of fingers and palms is much improved. An hour after stretching there is no further sensation.

Pain when massaging is also greatly reduced.

Will update as progress goes on.

Replied by Twinkytoze
(Sw Ontario)
04/04/2022

Update 04/04/2022

I make my own CBD oil from the hemp flower. Five days ago I bought a strain called AK47 that has in the neighborhood of 42.

Replied by Twinkytoze
(Sw Ontario)
04/07/2022
★★★★★

So here's my current regimen and status.

REGIMEN:

5ml CBD oil (strain AK47 7grams decarbed & infused in 250ml organic extra virgin olive oil) morning and night orally to counter arthritic inflammation that might be contributing to the condition.

3-4 drops CBD oil with homeopathic frequencies rhus tox, cholecynthis and nosode rubbed into palms 2-3x daily and 1ml orally morning and night.

Gentle stretching - holding stretch for 30-60 seconds 3-4x daily.

Massage - as often as possible.

STATUS:

Left Hand Middle Finger Palm Node: now flat and spongy. Cord in palm is soft almost gone. 90% improvement from beginning state.

Right Hand Ring Finger Palm Node: 50% smaller, softer. Cord in palm is completely imperceptible.

I may not be able to get rid of these entirely, and may have to continue treatment indefinitely, but if I can prevent the condition from advancing and retain the mobility in my hands I will consider this a win.


Cleavers Tea

1 User Review
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Posted by Sammy V (Lawrence Kansas) on 11/21/2022
★★★★★

Fifteen years ago it seemed my hands were turning into wood starting with my little finger on both hands. It was painful and distressing and I had no idea what was happening and started searching the internet describing the problem just that way “My hands are turning into wood” and the Dupuytren disease popped up I began looking for a remedy and the least invasive was from a herbal website recommending Cleavers tea, 2 cups a day. A month later all signs of stiffness were gone although I can still see some of the ligaments in the little finger of my right hand, in the center of both palms and the pointing finger in my left hand where the disease started. These ligaments are soft now and cause no problem. I am a firm believer in Cleavers tea and still drink a cup now and then just incase.


Cryotherapy

1 User Review
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Posted by Kay (Destin, Fl) on 09/02/2012
★★★★★

Notice: some people are finally having notable success treating DC via Cryotherapy. There is a great, very active and responsive group of patients reporting thier findings, results, progress, post-op issues, etc at Yahoo Groups for DP, so you folks may want to check them out!


Dietary Changes

2 User Reviews
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Posted by Peter (Northern California) on 03/09/2017
★★★★★

I am Eastern European who lives in California. I was diagnosed with Dupuytren's Contracture on my left hand palm about 5 years ago at age 48. It was progressing rapidly with growing knot on my palm and ring finger. Over two years ago I started low carb diet and about 16 months ago I got even stricter and begin Ketogenic diet. Amazingly within couple of months knots on my hand went down as well as contracture and pain. Looks like knots continue getting smaller and there is absolutely no pain or contracture. I can freely move my fingers and my hand looks normal except for small area on the palm where there is still small visible knot. Truly amazing considering that my doctor told that contractures will get worse and worse and eventually will have to operate on it. I truly believe that keto diet is the cause for improvement as I experienced other benefits in my health as well.


Dietary Changes
Posted by Sac (Denver, Co, Usa) on 05/17/2013
★★★★★

My 79 year old mother totally reversed her dupetryn's contractures and fibromyalgia by following the Epigenetic diet formulated by Dr. Jack Kruse. She started the diet almost one year ago and her symptoms started to get better after just one week of following the diet. Now, only if she strays from the diet does sometimes the pain and other symptoms return on the same or next day. She just has to go back for to eating that way and in a day the symptoms go away again.

My mother had fibro for almost 20 years and DT for the last 4 or 5 years. For me it has gotten rid of knee joint pain and swelling. I can always tell when I am not eating right because the joint pain comes back. As soon as I eat right it goes away again.

The more stricter you can adhere to eating this way the quicker your results. This is a way of eating that you can do for a lifetime without problems. It works for most people. If it doesn't that means it is time to see a professional because there might be something else going on.

Replied by Leah
(Australia)
10/30/2013

Hi there, my mother has just been diagnosed with DC, and I would be very interested in this epiginetic diet you talk about. Is there part of a book which talks about DC in particular? What is the name of the book which got you into the diet? Thanks for your help

Replied by Ronald
(Holland)
02/02/2016

Is there already some more positive news on improvement treatment DC by using epiginetic diet? Ronald

Replied by Annie
(London U K)
04/25/2016

Hi there, I have at 55 years of age just been diagnosed with Duputryens disease in my left hand. Although in its very early stages, I am interested in how Epigenetics and dietary changes can help. Can you please advise? Grateful from the UK

Replied by Cheryl
(Schererville)
09/21/2016

From what I saw all he really says it that you should eat only fruits and veggies that are in season for the time of the year. If it is spring only eat them according to the time of year you are in.

I really do not see that making much sense. More important stay away from refined sugar, and not a lot of fowl.

Fowl like chicken and turkey does make it worse.


DMSO, Wan Hua Oil

1 User Review
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Posted by German N. (Barcelona, Espa) on 01/21/2022
★★★★★

I am 70 years old and 2 years ago some lumps appeared on my right hand, my ring finger was bending and it hurt if I tried to stretch it. I looked on the internet and saw that it is called Dupuytren's Contracture.

I searched your WEB and found a writing in which the Chinese oil Wan Hua Oil was used. I tried it for a month or maybe two and saw no results. Then it occurred to me to try it with 70% DMSO and in 2 months, although the little bumps on my hand are still there, it no longer hurts when I stretch my finger. My guess is that the tendon is no longer held by the palmar fascia.

I did it in the following way: When I lay down, two drops of 70% DMSO in the area of ​​the little bumps on the hand followed by a few drops of Hual oil, cover with a gauze, which will be soaked. Fasten with espaladrapo so that it does not move, be careful not to stain the sheet.

Both the DMSO at 70% and the WAN HUA OIL Oil I bought from Amazon.

I hope it works for you as it worked for me.


Dupuytren's Contracture Remedies

Posted by Sarah (Galway, Ireland) on 08/09/2009

Hi

My mother's fingers are bent over (dupreyens sp? contracture) and she's been told she has to have surgery to reverse it. This has a 1 in a 100 risk of nerve damage, (which the doc. only mentioned when I asked about risks :)

Do you know of any remedies herbs or supplements that could help her. (She is taking baby aspirin and is in her 70's but is quite healthy otherwise.)

Any help at all would be much appreciated, she's a lovely lady and I think she's just going to go for the surgery in January if she doesn't come across anything.

Thanks

Replied by Gary
(Egremont, Ma)
09/30/2009

Sorry, I don't know any remedies other than surgery. I had Dupytrens removed from my right hand in 2002 and will need the left hand done some time int the future. I did not have any nerve damage and the recouperation was not that bad. It is a bit sore sometimes when I use the hand a lot, eg. when I tried Kayaking.

Replied by Brrr1106
(Grand Forks, Nd)
12/17/2009

My husband has had surgery on both hands due to Dupuytren's Contrature. He had no serious problems due to the surgery. He was, however, one of the youngest his Dr. had performed the surgery on and because he was young at the time, his hands are contracting again. We try to keep up with the latest in regard to this condition and there is now a newer treatment using injections which has been quite successful and does not require surgery. If you check websites on Dupuytren's, you should be able to do some homework before your mother decides to have surgery. This new treatment might be an alternative for her to explore. Good luck to her.

Replied by Kcsing1
(Nashville, Tn)
04/03/2010

Whatever you do, don't do the surgery. Go see Dr. Charles Eaton in Jupiter, Fl for the needle procedure. He's great and it's very easy and successful. Also, I have softened my nodules with a raw food and green smoothie diet.
Best,Kathy C

Replied by Willis
(Mid, Florida)
05/12/2010

My husband is age 41 and has the worst case of DC his doctor has ever seen. According to his Dr. surgery is the only fix and there is no cure. I did hear about the Dr in Florida as well. He has it in both feet and both hands. His first surgery was when he was in his mid 30's (usually DC affects people much older). The surgery had to be repeated within a year. The second time they had to remove so much tissue he had to have a skin graph and lost some mobility in his pinky finger. He had both feet operated on twice with no nerve damage. It has returned and will need surgery again when he gets to the point he can't walk. DC is hereditary and reoccurring. One Dr. mentioned that there seems to be a connection to skin graphs and less reoccurrence.

Replied by Lou
(Nj)
09/14/2010

I have had 2 NA procedures done in Fl by the Dr. on the same finger done within 5 years. After the second I had cortisone injected to soften the nodules only to backfire. My contracture returned within 4 weeks of the injection which was only intended to soften the nodules. I could not believe what I was seeing... I was told I will have to have another NA procedure to fix this.. Lesson learned: don't mess around with anything after NA procedure

Replied by Kerry
(Prairie, Idaho)
09/06/2023

Asking for any natural help for dupuytren or viking's disease. It is lumps in the palm of my hand. Sure don't want surgery.

Art
(California)
09/07/2023
2119 posts

Kerry,

Take a look at Earth Clinic's, Dupuytren's Contracture page, for multiple remedies here :

https://www.earthclinic.com/cures/dupuytrens-contracture.html

Art

Gary
(kitchener On)
09/07/2023

Hi Kerry

All lumps, wherever they appear, will be gone by rubbing Frankinsence Oil 2-3 times a day. It worked for me..

Keep healthy

Gary


Fatty Liver Cause

1 User Review
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Posted by Mr P (Duluth Man.) on 09/19/2018
★★★★★

Dupuytren's Contracture

Fatty liver could be a cause. I started getting a contracture on my ringer finger 7 years ago. Just found out I have a non alcohol fatty liver. Low and behold I found out that a fatty liver can cause Dupuytren's contracture.


Gluten-Free Diet

1 User Review
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Posted by Bill (Cape Charles, VA) on 04/14/2021
★★★★★

Several nodules on both hands began to appear last summer and progressed quickly until surgery was recommended.

I went gluten-free in mid-January, and not only has the progression stopped, but it has been reversed. The nodules have become softer and have diminished in size. Flexibility in my fingers has also increased significantly. I have also been using red-light therapy during this time. I'm continuing the diet and red-light therapy and I have started soaking my hands in Epsom salt.

Anyone else seen improvement in symptoms by starting a gluten-free diet?


Hand Gripping Exercises

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Posted by Gary (Canada) on 05/12/2017
★★★★☆

I place it in the jacuzzi daily and do 50 hand grips under high pressure nozzle and a hundred and three temperature. It works sometimes hours sometimes a week depends on how much I use it thereafter, but I never slow down.


Iodine, Magnesium and DMSO

8 User Reviews
5 star (7) 
  88%
2 star (1) 
  13%

Posted by Cameron (Brisbane) on 02/11/2023
★★★★★

I've been using 1 or 2 drops each of Lugols Iodine, DMSO and Magnesium Oil on my Dupuytren's Contracture off and on for about 3 weeks now and it's just about gone. I don't think twice a day is necessary but you would get faster results than me applying it maybe a couple of times a week.

Absolutely works.

Replied by Carol
(Roanoke, VA)
03/26/2023

What % Lugols are you using??? "Lugol's Originals" site sells numerous strengths from 2% to 20%.

Replied by James
(Chamois mo.)
03/31/2023

Do you have the quantities of each ingredient?

Replied by Mirjam
(The Netherlands)
04/24/2023

I am really curious how bad your contracture was and if your hand became very dry when applying this. I would like to give these drop a try too. Are your positive result staying?


Iodine, Magnesium and DMSO
Posted by Beth (MI) on 04/08/2021
★★★★★

Dupuytrens Contracture:

I started using Jean's mixture (Lugol's iodine, DMSO, magnesium oil - see her post below) three days ago. Already the lump is reduced, and the cord (tail coming from the lump) has shrunk from about an inch long to about 1/2 inch. This is working!

Replied by Martiele
(Florida)
06/12/2022

How is your hand progressing? Do you still have the cords and notes or where are you at? I would love to hear where you're at because I have the disease I need to figure out what to do.

Replied by Joshua
(Texas)
08/28/2022

Beth, or anybody:

Can you detail how to apply it? I recently got Lugol's iodine solution and Heiltropfen DMSO & Magnesium oil solution (60% DMSO, 40% magnesium chloride). Apparently I have a very extreme case of Depuytren's, and at an uncommonly young age. I've already had 2 surgeries on my left hand, and my right hand is in terrible shape. It's getting noticeably worse every day essentially and I won't be able to use it for much longer. I'm so frustrated. I need surgery asap, but in between the 2 hand surgeries I had major open heart surgery and I'm nervous because my anesthesiologist told me she had severe complications with my heart in the last surgery, which I interpret to mean that I almost died. I'll be really embarrassed if I survive open heart surgery only to die in hand surgery. If there's a chance at something else helping this condition I desperately need it.

Deirdre
(Asheville/EC)
08/28/2022

Hi Joshua,

I am sorry to hear about your struggles with this condition. You might look into Ted's borax protocol, which is 1/4 teaspoon of borax (20 Mule Team) in 1 liter of water and sipped throughout the day. Thousands of people have had good results on Ted's protocol since he wrote about it on Earth Clinic starting in 2004 for many different conditions.

I had a bad case of trigger thumb starting in 2020. Surgery was my next option after 2 cortisone shots and I tried a lot of various supplements and topical remedies (including topcial DMSO and magnesium) in the past two years. However, after 3 weeks on the above regimen starting in June of this year, I could bend and straighten my thumb with no issues. My thumb had frozen into a straight position after the second cortisone shot wore off in April and was getting increasingly worse/painful.

Quite remarkable as there is no supposed "cure" for trigger finger. But it appears that trigger finger is a boron deficiency. It might be the same for DC. If I skip a day, the stiffness returns, so I'll probably be doing this for the foreseeable future, but better than surgery.

Important Note: If you try the borax protocol, keep it up for a few weeks (or more) if nothing is improving. I had no progress until the 3rd week on the borax protocol when I could suddenly bend my thumb again. Good luck and please let us know how it goes.

Here is the detailed protocol:

https://www.earthclinic.com/remedies/borax.html



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