Skier’s Thumb
A sprained thumb is damage caused to the ulnar collateral ligament at the base of the thumb, often caused by ski poles during a fall. It can also happen during any other sports if there is sufficient force applied to the thumb away from the hand.
Signs & symptoms:
- Immediate thumb swelling and pain
- Bruising
- Chronic sprains there may be persistent thickening of the joint
Thumb sprains tend to resolve in 4-6 weeks, physiotherapy aim to increase range of motion and reduce pain, and use a progressive exercise programme to return to pre-injury strength.