How do you treat a sprained thumb?

Sprains are injuries to ligaments that connect the bones of the joints together. The thumb joint is most commonly injured in sporting injuries or simple twisting of the thumb in an unnatural position.

How the thumb is treated depends on the severity of the injury.

*RICE for Mild Sprains **

For minor sprains, you can typically treat them at home with rest, ice, compression, and elevation, often referred to as the RICE method:

Rest: Avoid any activity that causes pain, especially sports that involve the use of the thumb, such as basketball or tennis.

Ice: Apply an ice pack to the injured area for 20 minutes at a time, several times a day. This will help to reduce swelling and pain.

Compression: Wrap the thumb with an elastic bandage or ACE wrap to help reduce swelling. Be sure not to wrap the bandage too tightly, as this can cut off circulation.

Elevation: Keep your hand elevated above your heart as much as possible to help reduce swelling.

You can also take over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, to help relieve pain and swelling.

Professional Care for Moderate and More Serious Sprains *

For moderate to severe thumb sprains, you may need to see a doctor, especially if:

You are unable to move your thumb.

You have severe pain or swelling.

You see bruising near your thumb.

You have a fever.

In some cases, a doctor may recommend immobilizing your thumb with a splint or cast. This will help to prevent further injury and allow the ligament to heal.

More severe sprains may also require physical therapy to help restore range of motion and strength to your thumb.

*When To Seek Immediate Medical Attention*

In certain cases, it's important to seek immediate medical attention for a sprained thumb. This includes if you experience:

Persistent pain that does not improve with home treatment.

Swelling that does not go down.

Signs of infection, such as redness, warmth, or pus.

Difficulty moving or using your thumb.

A visible deformity or dislocation.

Sprained Thumb Prevention Tips:

1. Use proper technique when playing sports.
2. Wear protective gear, such as gloves or braces.
3. Avoid overexertion.
4. Warm up before exercise and cool down afterward.
5. Strengthen the muscles around your thumb to improve stability.