Thumb Sprain
What is a thumb sprain?
A thumb sprain is an injury to your thumb joint that causes a stretch or tear in a ligament. A ligament is a strong band of tissue connecting one bone to another.
How does it occur?
A sprain usually occurs when there is an accident. For example, a ball may hit the tip of your thumb or you may fall forcefully onto your thumb.
What are the symptoms?
Symptoms may include pain, swelling, and tenderness in your thumb.
How is it diagnosed?
Your healthcare provider will examine your thumb. You may have an X-ray to make sure you have not broken any bones.
How is it treated?
Treatment may include:
- Putting ice packs on your thumb for 20 to 30 minutes every 3 to 4 hours for 2 or 3 days or until the pain goes away.
- Elevating your injured hand on a pillow when you are lying down or on the back of a chair or couch when you are sitting.
- Taking an anti-inflammatory or other pain medicine prescribed by your healthcare provider.
- Doing exercises to strengthen your thumb during the healing process.
You may have to wear a splint on your thumb for 1 to 4 weeks after your injury.
How long will the effects last?
Your thumb may remain swollen with decreased range of motion and strength for many weeks. It is important to continue your rehabilitation exercises during this time and even after you return to your normal activities. In many cases you will be able to return to your activities as long as you are wearing your splint or have your thumb taped.
When can I return to my normal activities?
Everyone recovers from an injury at a different rate. Return to your activities will be determined by how soon your thumb recovers, not by how many days or weeks it has been since your injury has occurred. In general, the longer you have symptoms before you start treatment, the longer it will take to get better. The goal of rehabilitation is to return you to your normal activities as soon as is safely possible. If you return too soon you may worsen your injury.
In many cases you will be able to return to your activities as long as you are wearing your splint or have your thumb taped.
Written by Pierre Rouzier, MD, for RelayHealth.
Published by RelayHealth.
© 2009 RelayHealth and/or its affiliates. All Rights Reserved.
