- You are given medicine to help you relax and to prevent pain. You may be drowsy or completely asleep during the procedure. You may also have a nerve block. ...
- The surgeon makes a cut (incision) at the base of your thumb.
- The surgeon reattaches the ligament to the bone using stitches (sutures) and small anchors. He or she will also repair any injury to the tissues around it. ...
- When the procedure is done, the surgeon closes the skin incision with sutures.
- Your doctor will put a splint on your hand to hold your thumb still while the repair heals.
How do I treat a torn ligament in the thumb?
Ice packs help decrease pain and swelling. If the ligament is completely torn, surgery to repair the ligament is necessary. A cast is normally worn for six to eight weeks after surgery to repair a torn ligament in the thumb. Even with surgery, complications can occur. Nerves in the thumb can be damaged, resulting in numbness.
How long does it take for a torn thumb ligament to heal?
If the tear is partial, and the thumb is not too loose, the patient is usually placed in a cast or a modified wrist splint (called a thumb spica) for 4 to 6 weeks. By immobilizing the damaged ligament, healing can take place while the thumb will be protected from further injury.
What is a ligament tear in the thumb called?
A Torn Ligament in a Thumb. The ulnar collateral ligament also stabilizes the thumb so it doesn’t bend too far. An ulnar collateral ligament tear is often called a skier’s thumb or a gamekeeper’s thumb; skier’s thumb describes an acute injury and gamekeeper’s thumb a chronic injury, but the terms are often used interchangeably.
What is thumb collateral ligament surgery?
Surgery for the thumb collateral ligaments is usually done as an outpatient procedure, meaning you will probably go home the same day as the surgery. In the surgery, your surgeon will make a small V- or S-shaped cut over the back of the MCP joint of the thumb. This helps isolate and protect the nerve branches running up your thumb.
Can a torn ligament in the thumb heal on its own?
A torn ligament cannot fully heal itself. Surgery for the thumb collateral ligaments is usually done as an outpatient procedure, meaning you will probably go home the same day as the surgery.
How do they repair a torn ligament in the thumb?
The surgeon makes a cut (incision) at the base of your thumb. The surgeon reattaches the ligament to the bone using stitches (sutures) and small anchors. He or she will also repair any injury to the tissues around it. If a bone fracture is present, the surgeon may repair it with non-removable wires.
How long do damaged thumb ligaments take to heal?
Share on Pinterest When the ligaments are injured it may result in a sprain. Minor sprains can heal in as few as 2 weeks. More severe sprains can take 6 to 12 weeks, or longer. Anyone who experiences thumb pain, particularly if it lasts longer than a few days should see a doctor.
How do I know if I tore a ligament in my thumb?
Symptoms of Thumb Ligament Injury Pain and severe swelling on the inner part of the thumb immediately after the injury. Pain and severe swelling on the base of the thumb immediately, or shortly after the injury. Weakness and instability during grasp or writing. Loss of motion when attempting to move the thumb circular.
What is thumb ligament surgery called?
LRTI (ligament reconstruction and tendon interposition) is a surgical procedure that is most commonly conducted to treat thumb CMC (carpometacarpal) arthritis where the damaged joint surfaces are removed and replaced with a cushion of tissue that keeps the bones separated.
What helps ligaments heal faster?
How to Heal Strained Ligaments FasterApply ice to the strained ligament to alleviate pain and swelling. ... Use nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, NSAIDs, to repair strained ligaments. ... Engage in physical therapy once swelling and pain has decreased. ... Get surgery if the ligament is severely torn.
Should I wear a thumb brace at night?
“If you have had a fall or think you may have fractured your hand or wrist, it is OK to wear a brace overnight until you can get to the doctor's office,” says Dr. Delavaux. “But be sure to get it checked out, especially if the pain doesn't get better after a day or two.” Basal joint arthritis.
How do you check for a torn UCL in your thumb?
Often thumb UCL injuries can be detected on physical exam, and special x-rays called stress views can also help to confirm the diagnosis. These will also show if arthritis is present. Occasionally and MRI is ordered to visualize if the torn ligament.
Why does my thumb ligament hurt?
A sprain can occur when a ligament in the thumb is injured or torn. Ligaments connect two bones, forming a joint. A sprain can be very painful and may be confused with a broken bone or a joint problem, such as arthritis.
Is thumb ligament surgery painful?
You will likely have one 2-3 cm surgical incision on the inside of your thumb near your webspace. Ligament repairs can be painful. You will receive a prescription for narcotic pain medicine. For the first 2-3 days, take the pain medication around the clock to stay on top of the pain control.
Can you move your thumb if you tore a ligament?
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.
How long does it take for a torn ulnar collateral ligament in the thumb to heal?
Cast or splint immobilization of the thumb MCP joint for a period of four to six weeks allows time for the torn ligament to rest and heal in an optimal position, and removes stresses resulting from movement during daily activities.
How long does a thumb UCL tear take to heal?
It typically takes 4-6 weeks for the ligament to heals sufficiently for light use and may take longer before return to sports.
What is a Thumb Ligament injury?
Ligaments are tissues that hold bone to bone and keep joints from dislocating.When they are torn during a trauma, pain and instability can result.The most common thumb ligament injury is that of the thumb ulnar collateral ligament.This is also known as Skier’s Thumb or, when chronic, called Gamekeeper’s Thumb.
Diagnosis of Thumb Ulnar Collateral Ligament Injury
Your doctor can usually make the diagnosis of thumb ligament injury by examining the thumb. X-rays of the joint may be ordered and often an MRI is necessary.
Treatment for Thumb Ulnar Collateral Ligament Injury
Non-surgical treatment methods for some acute injuries include activity modification, anti-inflammatory medications, and the use of splints. Surgery is often considered for more severe injuries and complete tears. There are new modern techniques popularized including ‘internal brace’ devices.
What happens when a ligament is torn?
If the ligament has completely torn away from one of the bones, the end may fold under and form a bump that can be felt at the base of the thumb.
How to tell if your thumb is torn?
Symptoms. Pain occurs at the time of the injury. Afterward, the thumb is unstable; it’s difficult to grasp objects tightly between the thumb and index finger. Bruising and swelling may develop at the base of the thumb. If the ligament has completely torn away from one of the bones, the end may fold under and form a bump ...
What causes a ulnar collateral ligament injury?
Cause. Ulnar collateral ligament injuries are usually the result of a sudden force, called a valgus force, bending the thumb backwards, away from the hand 3 4. The sudden force on the thumb tears the ligament either partially or completely 3. An acute injury such as a fall on the outstretched thumb or a repetitive motion injury from overuse can ...
What is a skier's thumb?
An ulnar collateral ligament tear is often called a skier’s thumb or a gamekeeper’s thumb; skier’s thumb describes an acute injury and gamekeeper’s thumb a chronic injury, but the terms are often used interchangeably 3 4.
What ligament is used to pinch and grasp?
A torn ligament in the thumb usually affects the ulnar collateral ligament, which is used to pinch and grasp 3 4. The ulnar collateral ligament also stabilizes the thumb so it doesn’t bend too far 3 4.
How long does it take for a torn ligament to heal?
If the ligament isn’t completely torn, a cast may be used for around six weeks to stabilize the joint and allow the ligament to heal. A cast is normally worn for six to eight weeks after surgery to repair a torn ligament in the thumb.
How long does it take for Ulnar ligament to heal after cycling?
Ulnar Nerve Damage From Cycling. Learn More. If the ligament isn’t completely torn, a cast may be used for around six weeks to stabilize the joint and allow the ligament to heal. Ice packs help decrease pain and swelling. If the ligament is completely torn, surgery to repair the ligament is necessary. A cast is normally worn for six ...
How long does it take for a thumb to heal after a ligament injury?
Patients usually have good results when suture repair is done within four weeks after the injury. After surgery, pain and stiffness are usually minimal, and thumb strength will normally return.
What is the ligament that attaches to the middle of the thumb called?
Introduction. Injury to the ulnar collateral ligament of the thumb is fairly common. This strong band of tissue is attached to the middle joint of the thumb, the joint next to the web space of the thumb. This condition is sometimes called gamekeeper's thumb because Scottish gamekeepers commonly injured their thumbs as a result of their job.
What happens when the thumb is straight?
When the thumb is straight, the collateral ligaments are tight and stabilize the joint against valgus force. If the force is too strong, the ligaments can tear. They may even tear completely. A complete tear is also called a rupture. When the collateral ligaments actually tear, the MCP joint becomes very unstable.
Why does the MCP joint hurt?
In Scottish gamekeepers, ligament damage in the MCP joint happened because the ligament stretched out after the gamekeepers repeated the same action over and over. Today, most cases of ligament damage in the MCP joint are caused from sports injuries.
What is the term for a tear in the thumb?
When the thumb is straight, the collateral ligaments are tight and stabilize the joint against valgus force. If the force is too strong, the ligaments can tear. They may even tear completely. A complete tear is also called a rupture.
Why is my thumb unstable?
It is especially unstable when the thumb is bent back. If one of the ligaments pulls away from the bone and folds backwards, it won't be able to heal in the correct position. When this happens, surgery is needed to fix the ligament.
How long does it take for a thumb spica cast to heal?
Patients who are treated nonsurgically with a thumb spica cast start an exercise program when the cast is removed, usually after four to six weeks. Motion and strength usually improve within another two to four weeks, allowing people to get back to normal activity.
How to tell if a ligament is injured?
Diagnosis. Ultrasound scans and MRI scans can directly visualise and confirm whether the ligament has been injured. During clinical examination, the laxity of the ligament on the injured thumb will be compared to the non-injured thumb. The level of the ligament laxity indicates the degree of ligament injury.
How many grades are there for thumb ligament injuries?
Thumb ligament injuries are categorised into three different grades based on the severity of the injury:
Why does my thumb sprain?
A sprained thumb occurs when the thumb ligaments are stretched beyond their capabilities , sometimes leading to a tear in the ligament. This is usually a result of excessive force bending the thumb backwards.
How long should you keep your hand dry after a thumb surgery?
The hand should be kept dry and clean until the wound has healed. One week after the procedure the plaster will be removed and a supportive splint will be applied by a hand therapist. Supervised motion will be started by the hand therapist at one week. Heavy activity or stress on the thumb joint is not allowed for 8 weeks.
What happens when your thumb is pushed away from the rest of your hand?
In an acute injury, the thumb is pushed drastically away from the rest of the hand (while skiing, fall or during contact sport.) In a chronic injury, a recurrent strain of this ligament leads to chronic rupture (gamekeeper’s thumb.)
What is grade 3 sprain?
Grade 3 (severe sprain) – The ligament has been forced back severely, causing a complete tear. This is a significant injury and requires medical, potentially surgical treatment.
How long can you drive with a thumb injury?
Driving may not be possible for 6-8 weeks depending on which thumb is affected.
What test is used to determine if a thumb ligament is damaged?
Tests used to confirm the diagnosis may include X-rays or MRIs. X-rays can be helpful as they allow your healthcare provider to stress the joint and see if the ligament is doing its job or if it damaged too much to stabilize the joint. In addition, sometimes X-rays show a small piece of bone pulled off the thumb metacarpal by the UCL ligament. This bone, called a Stener lesion, is a sign that surgery may be necessary as the bone can prevent the UCL from healing in its proper position without a surgical repair. 1
How long does it take for a finger to heal after a ligament surgery?
At that point, gentle motion of the finger will begin. Most patients are able to play sports 3 to 4 months after surgery. Risks of surgery include infection, healing problems, and nerve injury. In addition, even with the surgical procedure, the damage to ligament will need time for healing. 2
Why is it difficult to pinch your thumb?
For these reasons, people with more significant injuries to the ulnar collateral ligament may choose to have a surgical procedure to repair or reconstruct the damage to ligaments .
What is a gamekeeper's thumb?
Treatment. A gamekeeper's thumb, also called a skier's thumb, is an injury to one of the important ligaments at the base of the thumb joint. The injury involves the ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) of the thumb. The UCL is a band of tough, fibrous tissue that connects the bones at the base of the thumb.
Why does my thumb get caught on a ski pole?
Because of the shape of the ski pole, the thumb tends to get caught and significant stresses are placed on the ulnar collateral ligament. If the thumb is bent far enough, the ulnar collateral ligament will tear. 2 . While there are many ways to injure the ulnar collateral ligament, a skier's thumb is the term used for an acute injury to ...
What is the other injury called?
The other injury is called a gamekeeper's thumb; this refers to a more chronic pattern of injury that leads to loosening of the ulnar ligament over time. The name comes from the European gamekeepers who would kill their game by grasping the head of the animal between their thumb and index finger to break its neck.
How long does it take for a thumb splint to heal?
If the tear is partial, and the thumb is not too loose, the patient is usually placed in a cast or a modified wrist splint (called a thumb spica) for 4 to 6 weeks. By immobilizing the damaged ligament, healing can take place while the thumb will be protected from further injury.
What is the treatment for a ruptured ligament?
Some people do explore non-surgical options for these treatments, this may include an array of stem cell therapy or Platelet Rich Plasma therapy.
How long does it take for a ligament to regain tensile strength?
The process can take months to resolve itself, and despite advances in therapeutics, many ligaments do not regain their normal tensile strength. This can now turn into a “nagging,” injury and may turn to itself into something that will require:
What is grade 3 knee ligament?
Grade III is a completely torn or ruptured ligament . If this has happened to you and you have a walking boot on or your shoulder is now in a sling, this will in many cases require surgical care and you should consult with the orthopedist about a surgical date.
What is rice ligament?
RICE generally involves resting or immobilizing an injured joint. The detrimental effect on ligament healing by taping or bracing a joint so it is immobilized is well documented. A physical examination of “rested” ligaments after immobilization shows them to be less glistening and more “woody” on palpation.
Why do you need to rest your joints?
Your body is sending healing factors and fluid to the site of the injury. The fluid is there in part to create a “water cast,” to help immobilize the injured area. This is why you may be recommended to resting the injured joint. Not to move it while the immune system figures out how to fix the injury.
Can a grade 1 ligament heal on its own?
Grade I and Grade II will most likely heal on their own IF YOU LET THEM. Meaning you give the body its chance to heal that ligament without you going back on the field or court. We also know that many of you need to continue to work. You may not be able to allow this problem to heal sufficiently because you have to be on the job. We will get to that later.
Which joints are most affected by ligament injuries?
The joints most often affected by ligament injuries are the knees, hips, shoulders, ankles, elbows, and wrists.
How is skier's thumb repaired?
How surgical repair of skier’s thumb is done. The surgery is most often done on an outpatient basis. That means that you go home the same day. During the surgery: You are given medicine to help you relax and to prevent pain. You may be drowsy or completely asleep during the procedure. You may also have a nerve block.
Where is the cut on the thumb?
The surgeon makes a cut (incision) at the base of your thumb.
What is a skier's thumb?
Skier’s thumb (sometimes called gamekeeper’s thumb) is an injury to the ulnar collateral ligament. This ligament is located at the base of your thumb on the side near the index (pointer) finger. It helps keep your thumb stable when grasping or pinching objects. With skier’s thumb, the ligament is stretched or torn (sprained).
Can a torn ligament heal on its own?
If your ligament is severely stretched or torn, or if nearby tissues and bone are also injured, your injury may not heal correctly on its own. You may need surgery. This can help the ligament heal and restore movement to and full use of your thumb.
Causes
- One of the main causes of a torn ligament in the thumb is sudden force. When a forceful event occurs that pushes your thumb away from your palm, a tear can occur. There are many different types of accidents that can occur that can lead to a torn ligament in the thumb. Some of these incidents include, but are not limited to: 1. Falling on your hand 2. Playing any sport, especially s…
Symptoms
- Some of the symptoms that accompany a torn ligament in the thumb are: 1. Pain 2. Swelling 3. Redness 4. Bruising 5. Weakness 6. Difficulty grasping objects 7. Bumps 8. Thumb is bent backwards 9. Unstable thumb
Diagnosis
- One of the best ways that a doctor can determine if you have a torn ligament in the thumb or have just a sprain is through an X-ray. An X-ray can show if there are any broken bones, tears or a torn ligament. Doctors can also perform a physical examination on the thumb to test its stress level and ability to hold objects. A torn ligament in the thumb can be classified if your thumb can mov…
How to Treat A Torn Ligament in The Thumb
- Unfortunately, a complete tear in the ligament of the thumb does not guarantee just a cast on the thumb. A cast on the thumb is usually reserved for partially torn ligaments. Placing ice packs on your injured thumb can help reduce the pain and swelling. Over-the-counter medications such a…
Prevention
- There may not be a 100% fool-proof way to prevent a torn ligament in the thumb, but there are certain things people can do to help prevent it from occurring. Always use protection on your hands when playing sports to reduce the risk of an injury. Remember to take a break from repetitive actions using your hands and thumbs.