injuries and poisoning
Thumb Sprains
Treatment of Thumb Sprains
Usually a thumb spica splint Strengthening exercises Sometimes surgery For most sprains, the thumb is immobilized with a thumb spica splint. The splint is worn for several weeks until the ligament heals. After a few weeks, people may take the splint off to do strengthening exercises, then put the splint back on. People should continue this regimen for 2 to 3 weeks. If the ligament is badly torn or if a piece of broken bone needs to be put back in place, surgery is needed. Surgery is also needed if the ligament does not heal after being splinted for several weeks. After surgery, people need to wear a thumb spica cast for 6 to 8 weeks. A thumb spica cast is rigid. Like the thumb spica splint, the thumb spica cast prevents the thumb from moving. It covers the wrist and forearm and keeps the thumb in a neutral position (as shown in thumb spica splint, above). 