What is Skier’s Thumb?

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Skier’s Thumb, also known as Gamekeeper’s Thumb, is an injury to the ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) of the metacarpophalangeal joint (MCPJ) of the thumb. This injury occurs due to forced abduction and hyperextension of the thumb, often resulting from a fall on an outstretched hand while holding a ski pole or other object.

What Causes Skier’s Thumb?

The primary cause of Skier’s Thumb is a traumatic event that forces the thumb into hyperextension and abduction. This can occur in various situations, including:

  1. Skiing Accidents: Falling on an outstretched hand while holding a ski pole is a common cause of Skier’s Thumb. The force of the fall can stretch or tear the UCL, leading to pain, swelling, and instability in the thumb.
  2. Car Accidents: Drivers who have their thumbs on the outside of the steering wheel during an accident can also experience Skier’s Thumb.
  3. Repetitive Injuries: Chronic instability can arise from repetitive injuries, such as those experienced by athletes in sports like hockey, basketball, or soccer.
  4. Other Trauma: Any injury that causes the thumb to bend backward or to the side can lead to Skier’s Thumb.

What are the Symptoms of Skier’s Thumb?

Whats Skiers Thumb

The symptoms of Skier’s Thumb include:

  1. Pain: Pain at the base of the thumb, especially in the web space between the thumb and index finger.
  2. Swelling: Swelling and bruising along the thumb, which can be severe in some cases.
  3. Weakness: Weakness with pinching or gripping, making it difficult to perform everyday activities.
  4. Instability: Instability of the thumb joint, which can cause the thumb to feel loose or wobbly.
  5. Tenderness: Tenderness to the touch along the index finger side of the thumb.
  6. Discoloration: Blue or black discoloration of the skin over the thumb.
  7. Pain with Movement: Pain that worsens with movement in any direction.

How Common is Skier’s Thumb?

Skier’s Thumb is a common injury among skiers, accounting for approximately 7% to 32% of all skiing injuries. It is more prevalent in males than females and affects about 200,000 patients per year in the USA.

What are the Treatment Options for Skier’s Thumb?

The treatment for Skier’s Thumb depends on the severity of the injury and the extent of the ligament damage. Treatment options may include:

  1. Nonsurgical Treatment:
  2. Immobilization: Wearing a splint or cast to immobilize the thumb and allow the ligament to heal.
  3. Ice and Elevation: Applying ice to reduce swelling and elevating the hand to promote healing.
  4. Anti-inflammatory Medications: Taking over-the-counter anti-inflammatory drugs to reduce pain and inflammation.

  5. Physical Therapy: Performing exercises and stretches to restore range of motion and strength.

  6. Surgical Treatment:

  7. Ligament Repair: In cases of a complete ligament tear, surgery may be necessary to reattach the ligament to the bone.
  8. Ligament Reconstruction: If the ligament is severely damaged, a surgical procedure to reconstruct the ligament may be required.

The choice of treatment will depend on the severity of the injury, the patient’s age, activity level, and the presence of any other underlying conditions.

How Can Skier’s Thumb Be Prevented?

To prevent Skier’s Thumb, skiers can take the following precautions:

  1. Use Proper Ski Pole Technique: Avoid gripping the ski pole too tightly, as this can increase the risk of injury during a fall.
  2. Wear Protective Gear: Use gloves or mittens that provide support and protection for the thumb and hand.
  3. Strengthen the Thumb: Engage in exercises that strengthen the thumb and hand muscles, such as resistance band exercises or grip strengthening activities.
  4. Improve Balance and Coordination: Enhance your overall balance and coordination through exercises and training, which can help you better react to and avoid falls.
  5. Seek Professional Guidance: Consult with a sports medicine specialist or physical therapist to learn proper skiing techniques and injury prevention strategies.

By taking these preventive measures, skiers can reduce their risk of developing Skier’s Thumb and enjoy their time on the slopes safely.

References:

  1. Hand and Wrist Institute. (n.d.). Skier’s Thumb: Causes, Symptoms & Treatment. Retrieved from https://handandwristinstitute.com/skiers-thumb-causes-symptoms-treatment/

  2. The Center. (n.d.). Skiers Thumb Causes, Symptoms & Treatment. Retrieved from https://www.thecenteroregon.com/pain-injury-services/hand-wrist-pain/skiers-thumb/

  3. Alliance Physical Therapy. (2015, March 7). Skier’s Thumb: Causes, Symptoms and Treatments. Retrieved from https://www.alliancephysicaltherapyva.com/Blog/?p=110.

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