A sprained thumb, also known as a ‘skier’s thumb’, is an injury that affects the main ligament of the thumb called the ulnar collateral ligament. Depending on the extent of the injury, healing can take up to 6 weeks. The complete tearing of the main ligament is a characteristic of this trait.
An injured thumb can cause future problems with the patient’s pincher grasp. Sprains often happen after a fall. A fall during skiing can cause this injury as a person’s thumbs are strapped to the poles while skiing.
Symptoms of Sprained Thumb
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Weakened grasp. Weakness lasts longer than a few hours following the injury.
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Pain. The pain may not occur immediately after the injury.
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Bruising
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Instability of the thumb
Diagnostic Tests
The following diagnostic tests may be prescribed to patients who are suspected of having a sprained thumb.
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Physical Examination.
The doctor is going to check out the signs of a sprain. Palpation of any broken bone may be anticipated. -
Imaging Studies, a special radiographic test involves applying tension on the injured finger. If this causes pain, doctors can administer a local anesthetic.
Sprained Thumb Treatment
Depending on the extent of the injury, the treatment option for a sprained thumb may be surgical or non-surgical.
Non-Surgical Treatment
This is ideal when the ligament is only partially torn. It involves the following:
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Immobilization, the thumb is immobilized with the use of a bandage or a cast.
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Pain medication
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Cold/Hot compresses, these can help to relieve some of the pain and the swelling.
Surgical Treatment
When there is a complete tear or when bone involvement is present, surgery may be necessary in order for the thumb to heal completely. Treatment methods include:
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Reconnecting the ligament to the bone
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Repairing any fractures which may have resulted from the injury
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Immobilization after surgery gives the thumb time to heal. For this purpose, a patient may have to wear a short arm cast.
Sprained Thumb Recovery Time
Recovery time is going to depend on the extent of injury and on the type of treatment done. Patients can expect the following:
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Partial Tear involves non surgical treatments. The thumb may have to be immobilized for 3 weeks. Restricted motion with some strength exercises will be required for up to 3 or 4 more weeks following immobilization.
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Complete Tear and avulsion fractures require surgical treatment and 6 to 8 weeks of immobilization with cast followed by strength training.