Wrist & Thumb Injury

Treatment

• Applying ice (crushed in a towel) several times a day.
• Resting the wrist and elevating it (raising it above the heart) can help.
• Taking anti-inflammatory medication if advised by your doctor.
• Non-operative treatment:this includes
  • Wearing a splint or elasticated bandage
  • Gently exercising the wrist to help build strength and flexibility.
• Surgery: you recover (this usually takes around six weeks)
  • if you have had a Grade 3 sprain
  • you may need surgery to reconnect the ligament to the bone.
  • Some ligament tears are crucial to detect and repair early, otherwise late damage and arthritis can develop. Afterwards you will usually be given exercises to rebuild strength and increase your range of movement while

This information is only a guideline to help you understand your treatment and what to expect. Everyone is different and your rehabilitation may be quicker or slower than other people’s. Please contact us for advice if you’re worried about any aspect of your health or recovery.

Sprained Thumb

• Sprained thumb occurs when the ligaments that support the thumb stretch beyond their limits or tear.
• This usually happens when a strong force bends the thumb backwards, away from the palm of the hand.
• The most common way for this to occur is by falling onto an outstretched hand.
• Most thumb sprains involve the ulnar collateral ligament, which is located on the inside of the knuckle joint.
• A tear to this ligament can be painful and may make your thumb feel unstable. It may also weaken your ability to grasp objects between your thumb and index finger.
• Treatment for a sprained thumb usually involves wearing a splint or cast to keep the thumb from moving while the ligament heals. For more severe sprains, surgery may be needed to restore stability to the joint.