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Treating Skier's Thumb: From Splints to Surgery
Published: Sep 19, 2023
Treating skier's thumb effectively can prevent long-term problems with your hand function. The right approach depends on how severe your injury is.
Conservative Treatment
For mild to moderate cases of skier's thumb, non-surgical treatment is often the first choice. This typically involves wearing a special thumb splint that keeps your thumb immobilized in a safe position. You'll usually need to wear this for about 4-6 weeks. During this time, you'll need to avoid activities that could stress your thumb. Ice and anti-inflammatory medications can help manage pain and swelling.
Surgical Options
If your injury is severe or doesn't improve with conservative treatment, surgery might be necessary. The most common procedure involves reattaching the torn ligament to the bone. In some cases, a tendon graft might be used to reconstruct the ligament. Surgery is typically done as an outpatient procedure, meaning you can go home the same day.
Rehabilitation
Whether you have surgery or not, rehabilitation is crucial for a full recovery. This usually involves physical therapy to regain strength and flexibility in your thumb. Your therapist will guide you through exercises to improve your range of motion and grip strength. The rehabilitation process can take several weeks to a few months, depending on the severity of your injury and your individual progress.
Frequently Asked Questions
It varies, but typically 6-12 weeks for full recovery.
Depends on your job, but some time off might be necessary.
It's generally not recommended due to safety concerns.
Most people regain full function with proper treatment.
The Bottom Line
With the right treatment and patience, most people recover well from skier's thumb injuries.
References
- Samora JB, Harris JD, Griesser MJ, et al. Outcomes after injury to the thumb ulnar collateral ligament--a systematic review. Clin J Sport Med 2013; 23:247.
- Christensen T, Sarfani S, Shin AY, Kakar S. Long-Term Outcomes of Primary Repair of Chronic Thumb Ulnar Collateral Ligament Injuries. Hand (N Y) 2016; 11:303.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic. Always discuss health information with your healthcare provider.
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