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

• Skier’s Thumb
• Sprained Thumb

What is Thumb Sprain? (Definition/Background Information)

• The thumb has two bones that are connected to the hand bone. The first bone, called distal phalange, extends from the top 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
• Ligaments in the thumb connect the bones to the joint. A Thumb Sprain is an injury that stretches or tears the ligaments in the thumb. This may occur as a result of a direct fall, or any significant traumatic event

Who gets Thumb Sprain? (Age and Sex Distribution)

• Although, men and women of any age, susceptible to an Thumb Sprain, this injury is more prevalent in athletes, who participate in sports
• Individuals, who are physically active, have the highest risk of a Sprained Thumb

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

Risk factors of a Thumb Sprain include:

• Athletics: Individuals, who participate in rough- or high-impact sports, such as football and basketball, are at an increased risk

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 Sprain? (Etiology)

A few causes of Sprained Thumb include:

• Falls: A direct fall, either with an outstretched hand or elbow, is one of the main causes
• Direct trauma: Any significant traumatic event, such as an automobile, motorcycle, or bicycle accident
• Sports related injury: Participating in rough or high impact sports

What are the Signs and Symptoms of Thumb Sprain?

Individuals, who sustain a Thumb Sprain, may not exhibit symptoms of the injury immediately. But, the injury may reduce the individual’s capacity to grip or hold objects. Common signs and symptoms include: 

• Pain, when bending the thumb
• Difficultly with thumb movement
• Swelling of the thumb; tenderness to touch

How is Thumb Sprain Diagnosed?

Some tests a physician can use to help diagnose a Thumb Sprain include:

• X-rays: X-rays use radiation in order to produce images of the thumb. It can also help the physician rule out other possible causes of thumb discomfort
• Magnetic imaging (MRI): An MRI is a more detailed scan in which, magnetic field and radio waves are used to produce images. This allows a physician to view any damage to the bones and soft tissue that surrounds the thumb

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 Sprain?

Some complications of Thumb Sprain include:

• Avulsion fractures: Avulsion fractures occur, when small bone fragments or ligaments, are pulled-off the main bone
• Permanent disability: If the thumb ligaments tear, the injury may lead to a permanent disability
• Chronic pain: Any injury to the thumb ligaments may result in prolonged chronic pain

How is Thumb Sprain Treated?

Treatment an individual receives depends on the severity of the injured ligaments. Thumb Sprains may range from mild to severe, and may be classified as:

• Level I: Level I sprains occur, when the ligaments of the thumb are stretched, but not torn
• Level II: Level II sprains occur, when the thumb ligaments are partially torn, limiting a patient’s function and range of motion
• Level III: Level III sprains are, when the ligaments in the thumb are completely torn, requiring immediate medical and surgical treatment

Nonsurgical treatment measures include:

• Rest: Any activity that aggravates the thumb condition should be avoided. The physician may advise the individual to refrain from participating in any physical activities, till the pain or symptoms get better
• Ice: Applying ice to the thumb/hand can help reduce pain and swelling
• Splint or brace: The physician may prescribe a padded brace covering the thumb, to limit movement and help the injury to heal
• Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID): Certain medications, such as ibuprofen and naproxen, can help reduce mild to moderate pain in the thumb
• Physical therapy: After the signs and symptoms have abated, it is important to begin some light motion exercises. Physical therapy may help restore strength, as well as flexibility, in the muscles

A majority of Thumb Sprain injuries do not require any surgical intervention. Individuals with persistent and unrelenting pain will usually require a surgical procedure to repair any damaged ligaments. The surgical procedures include:

• Arthroscopy: An arthroscopic surgery is a moderately invasive surgical technique that is used to repair the thumb, using small surgical instruments. These instruments are inserted through a small incision within the thumb
• Open reconstructive surgery: An open reconstructive surgery is used to repair the injured thumb ligaments, using surgical orthopedic devices, stitches or sutures

How can Thumb Sprain be Prevented?

One has to 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 probable dangers involved should be anticipated and safety measures adopted.

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

• Prevent falls: Wearing appropriate footwear, such as the proper shoe size, may help prevent accidents, or sprains
• Use protective gear: Individuals, who participate in any high-risk sports, such as basketball, should wear appropriate safety equipment to help prevent the possibility of a Sprained Thumb

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

• A majority of Thumb Sprains heal without any serious complications, although some severe cases may require surgical intervention
• Thumb Sprains may usually require a healing time of 2-6 weeks, in order to achieve optimal results, although a severe injury may require a longer period
• When properly treated and rehabilitated, a high percentage of patients regain their full strength and range of motion in the injured thumb

Additional and Relevant Useful Information for Thumb Sprain:

A thumb fracture is a common fracture that occurs when the bones of the thumb (either the distal phalange, or the proximal phalange) breaks or cracks.