A thumb sprain is considered as a common form of injury. A sprain is an injury involving a ligament which is a soft tissue that links bones to each other at the joints. The commonly damaged ligament in the thumb is the ulnar collateral ligament which helps connect the thumb to the hand on the side of the index finger.
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This enables the thumb to function as a post. Damage to this ligament is oftentimes called “skier’s thumb” since it commonly occurs from injury to a ski pole.
Possible causes
A thumb sprain is usually brought about by falls or engaging in sports where the thumb is either jammed into another player, ball or the ground or if the thumb is flexed into an extreme position. Remember that one or several ligaments can end up torn.
What are the indications?
- The thumb or hand becomes swollen and even bruising
- Pain lasts for only a week or two.
- Difficulty holding objects, writing or turning a doorknob.
- The pain is oftentimes felt as weakness
Management
An X-ray can reveal whether the bones of the thumb and hand are damaged. The doctor will assess the thumb to check if the ligament is torn. In some cases, the tears are treated with a cast or splint. Other tears should be fixed with surgery.
In case the injury is chronic, the ligament will not heal even with treatment. In such instances, a new ligament is created with a tendon. If there is arthritis in the joint, fusion of the joint is required so that it will not move.
More Information / Disclaimer
The information posted on this page on a thumb sprain is for learning purposes only. Learn to recognize and manage sprains including on the thumb by taking a standard first aid course with Saskatoon First Aid.