What are the other Names for this Condition? (Also known as/Synonyms)

• Fracture of Thumb
• Fractured Thumb

What is Thumb Fracture? (Definition/Background Information)

• A Thumb Fracture is a common fracture that occurs when bones of the thumb break
• The thumb has two bones that are connected to the hand bone. The first bone, called distal phalange, extends from the tip of the thumb all the way to the knuckle. The second bone, called proximal phalange, extends from the knuckle all the way to the (thumb) metacarpal bone, which is attached to the wrist
• Thumb Fractures occur when, either the distal phalange, or the proximal phalange of the thumb, breaks. A majority of the fractures are caused by a direct fall, or blow to the thumb

Who gets Thumb Fracture? (Age and Sex Distribution)

• Thumb Fractures are non-specific fractures, occurring in individuals of all age, race, ethnic group, and gender
• However, these fractures are more common in athletes, who participate in rough- or high-impact sports

What are the Risk Factors for Thumb Fracture? (Predisposing Factors)

Common risk factors associated with a Thumb Fractures include:

• Participation in high-risk, contact sports, such as basketball
• An advanced age; elderly adults are more prone to fall fractures
• Reduced bone mass in postmenopausal women or inactive older individuals (due to osteoporosis)
• Having a diet with insufficient amounts of calcium

It is important to note that having a risk factor does not mean that one will get the condition. A risk factor increases ones chances of getting a condition compared to an individual without the risk factors. Some risk factors are more important than others.

Also, not having a risk factor does not mean that an individual will not get the condition. It is always important to discuss the effect of risk factors with your healthcare provider.

What are the Causes of Thumb Fracture? (Etiology)

Some of the causes of a Thumb Fracture include:

• Falling from a significant height (or the fracture occurring since the individual is overweight)
• Direct trauma to the thumb, associated with an automobile accident
• Taking part in any rough or high-impact sport

What are the Signs and Symptoms of Thumb Fracture?

Sign and symptoms of a Thumb Fracture include:

• Pain, swelling of the thumb
• A tender sensation when touched, numbness
• Noticeable deformity of the thumb
• Decreased range of motion of the thumb

How is Thumb Fracture Diagnosed?

Diagnostic methods that a physician may use to help diagnose a Thumb Fracture include:

• Physical examination: A thorough physical examination is important in identifying any noticeable deformities, swelling, and contusions, within the thumb. Individuals are also expected to provide an explanation of the circumstances that caused the injury. In addition to this, a complete medical history can aid in arriving at a definitive diagnosis
• X-ray: X-rays are the most common method in evaluating a fracture, especially if the bone is displaced. This diagnostic test will provide a clear image of the bone, identify the exact location of the injury, and determine the extent of the fracture

Many clinical conditions may have similar signs and symptoms. Your healthcare provider may perform additional tests to rule out other clinical conditions to arrive at a definitive diagnosis.

What are the possible Complications of Thumb Fracture?

In some cases, a Thumb Fracture may lead to the development of degenerative joint disease, termed osteoarthritis.

How is Thumb Fracture Treated?

A high percentage of Thumb Fractures require surgical interventions. However, this injury may also be treated without surgery. Nonsurgical treatments associated with a Thumb Fracture include:

• Any activity that aggravates the thumb/hand condition should be avoided. The physician may advise the individual to refrain from participating in any physical activities, until the pain or symptoms get better
• Complete immobilization of the thumb with a cast, may be required to restrict movement
• Applying ice to the thumb, can help reduce pain and swelling
• The use of antibiotics may help treat or prevent bacterial infections
• Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory oral medications, such as indomethacin and naproxen, may be used to treat a Thumb Fracture. These medications can help decrease the pain and swelling

Surgical treatment methods include:

• Open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF): Open reduction is a surgical procedure to realign the fractured bone, to its original position. Surgical hardware (such as plates, screws, or rods) is then used to stabilize the fractured bone under the skin

How can Thumb Fracture be Prevented?

To prevent a Thumb Fracture, individuals should be careful and consciously aware, while performing any physical activities, such as sports, or even some normal daily activities that could lead to situations involving accidents. Children must be provided a safe environment to work, study, or play. Any possible dangers should also be anticipated and appropriate safety measures adopted.

A few ways to further help prevent unwanted injuries or Thumb Fractures include:

• Individuals who participate in any high-risk sports, should wear appropriate safety equipment to help prevent the possibility of such fractures
• Consuming foods rich in calcium, such as milk, yogurt, and cheese, help build bone strength. Regular diet with appropriate calcium-intake is recommended, even after a Thumb Fracture. For women, the recommended amount of calcium, increases with age and menopause

What is the Prognosis of Thumb Fracture? (Outcomes/Resolutions)

• A high percentage of Thumb Fracture injuries heal (typically within 8 weeks), without any serious complications
• If properly treated and rehabilitated, a majority of the individuals regain their full strength and range of motion in the injured thumb

Additional and Relevant Useful Information for Thumb Fracture:

Arthritis of the thumb affects the joints of the thumb; especially the cartilage, bone, soft tissue surrounding the joint, muscles, and tendon.