Skier’s thumb, also known as gamekeeper’s thumb or ulnar collateral ligament injury, is a condition that occurs when the ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) of the thumb is damaged or torn. This injury can result in pain, instability, and weakness of the thumb, and can be caused by a sudden forceful pull or tear of the thumb away from the hand.
Symptoms
The most common symptoms of skier’s thumb include:
- Pain and tenderness at the base of the thumb
- Swelling and bruising at the base of the thumb
- Weakness or instability of the thumb
- Difficulty gripping or holding objects
Causes
Skier’s thumb is most commonly caused by a fall onto an outstretched hand while holding a ski pole, or by any other forceful pulling or twisting motion of the thumb away from the hand.
Risk Factors
People who engage in activities that involve skiing, snowboarding, or other sports that require the use of poles, as well as those who engage in manual labor or heavy lifting, are at higher risk for skier’s thumb.
Associated Conditions
Skier’s thumb may be associated with other injuries, such as fractures or dislocations of the thumb or hand.
Diagnosis
A healthcare provider will typically diagnose skier’s thumb based on a physical examination of the thumb and a review of the patient’s medical history. X-rays or other imaging studies may also be used to rule out any other injuries, such as fractures or dislocations.
Differential Diagnosis
Other conditions that can present with similar symptoms to skier’s thumb include sprains, fractures, or dislocations of the thumb or hand.
Treatment Options
The most common treatment for skier’s thumb is immobilization of the affected thumb with a splint or cast for a period of 4-6 weeks. In some cases, surgery may be necessary if the injury is severe or if conservative treatment fails.
Typical Recovery Timeframes
It typically takes around 4-6 weeks for the ligament to heal and for the thumb to regain full function. During this time, the splint or cast should be worn continuously to ensure that the thumb remains immobilized.
Prognosis
With proper treatment, most people with skier’s thumb will make a full recovery and regain full function of their thumb. However, if the injury is severe or if it is not treated promptly, the thumb may not fully heal and may be permanently weakened or unstable.