Skier'S Thumb (Thumb Ligament Injury)
Expert Diagnosis & Treatment by Hand and Wrist Specialists in Wisconsin
Skier’s thumb is a common injury involving damage to the ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) of the thumb. This ligament plays a critical role in thumb stability and grip strength. When it is stretched or torn, patients may experience pain, weakness, and difficulty performing everyday tasks. Skier’s thumb most often occurs after a fall onto an outstretched hand, especially while holding a ski pole, but it can also happen during sports or accidental falls.
At Orthopaedic Associates of Wisconsin, our hand and wrist doctors specialize in diagnosing and treating thumb ligament injuries, helping patients return to daily activities and sports safely.
What Is Skier’s Thumb?
Skier’s thumb is an injury to the ulnar collateral ligament located at the base of the thumb near the metacarpophalangeal (MCP) joint. The UCL helps stabilize the thumb during pinching and gripping motions. When the ligament is partially torn or completely ruptured, the thumb may feel unstable and painful, especially when grasping objects.
Without proper treatment, skier’s thumb can lead to chronic pain, weakness, and long-term instability of the thumb joint.
Causes of Skier’s Thumb
Skier’s thumb commonly occurs due to:
Falls while skiing, particularly when gripping a ski pole
Falls onto an outstretched hand
Sports-related injuries involving sudden thumb movement
Accidental trauma or everyday slips and falls
Although it is most often associated with skiing, this injury can affect anyone, not just winter athletes.
Symptoms of Skier’s Thumb
Common symptoms include:
Pain and tenderness at the base of the thumb
Swelling and bruising around the thumb joint
Weak grip or difficulty pinching objects
Thumb instability or looseness
Limited range of motion in the thumb or hand
If you experience these symptoms after an injury, it is essential to undergo early evaluation by a hand and wrist specialist.
Diagnosing Skier’s Thumb
Our Wisconsin hand and wrist doctors begin with a thorough physical examination to assess thumb stability and ligament integrity. Imaging studies, such as X-rays or advanced imaging techniques, may be ordered to rule out fractures and assess the severity of the ligament injury.
An accurate diagnosis enables the development of an effective treatment plan and helps prevent long-term complications.
Treatment Options for Skier’s Thumb
Non-Surgical Treatment
Mild to moderate ligament injuries may be treated without surgery. Treatment options can include:
Immobilization with a thumb splint or cast
Rest and activity modification
Anti-inflammatory medications
Physical or hand therapy to restore strength and motion
Surgical Treatment
Severe or complete UCL tears may require surgery to repair or reconstruct the ligament. Surgical treatment aims to restore thumb stability and function and may be recommended for patients who rely heavily on grip strength for work or sports.
Our hand and wrist specialists work closely with each patient to determine the best treatment approach.
OUR BICEP REPAIR SPECIALISTS
Jon M. Englund, MD
Specialties:
Sports Medicine, Knee, Hip, Shoulder, Spine, Foot & Ankle, Elbow, Hand & Wrist
David B. Merkow, MD
Specialties:
Hand, Wrist, and Elbow; General Orthopaedic Trauma
Ready to Take the Next Step Toward Relief?
With advanced diagnostics, personalized treatment plans, and comprehensive follow-up care, our team is committed to helping patients regain strength, mobility, and confidence in their hands.
If you are experiencing thumb pain or suspect a ligament injury, prompt evaluation can make a meaningful difference in your recovery.
