Skier's thumb -- also referred to as gamekeeper's thumb -- is an injury to the ligament located on the inside of your thumb. This ligament is responsible for movement of your thumb joint and provides stability for the thumb. The American Association for Hand Surgery indicates that skier's thumb is the result of falling with a ski pole in your hand. Skier's thumb is the result of direct force placed on the thumb joint.
Symptoms
If you experience skier's thumb, you will likely be able to recall an instant when you fell with ski poles in your hand. You may experience tenderness along the inside of your thumb as well as swelling and bruising. You may lose range of motion of your thumb. If you completely tore the ligaments in your thumb, your thumb will appear to be very unstable. The severity of your symptoms largely depends on how severe the damage is to your thumb.
Diagnosis
If you believe you have skier's thumb, you should stop skiing and visit with your doctor. Your doctor will take a medial history and ask you to describe how your injury occurred. A physical examination will also take place. An x-ray may be taken to rule out a thumb fracture. Your doctor may order a CT scan or MRI to further evaluate the severity of your injury.
Treatment
Treatment depends largely on the severity of your injury. If you have not completely torn the ligaments in your thumb, your injury can be treated conservatively. This includes an immobilization period of approximately four weeks -- this may vary based on the recommendations of your doctor and the severity of your injury. Your hand will be placed in a short fiberglass cast. Following removal of your cast, you will receive a removable splint or brace to wear for an additional two weeks. Once your cast is removed, you will also begin therapy. A physical therapist will work with you to help you rebuild strength and range of motion in your thumb. You should not return to skiing until your doctor releases you. If you completely tear your thumb ligament, surgery is an option. Surgery will be performed to repair the damaged ligament. Following surgery, you will spend four weeks in a cast and an additional two weeks in a removable splint. Physical therapy will also be used. Expect a full recovery within three to four months.
Prevention
While skier's thumb is a traumatic injury and traumatic injuries are hard to predict, there are steps you can take to reduce the chances of developing skier's thumb. If you are just learning to ski or if you have not skied in awhile, avoid using poles. You can learn to ski by simply just using your skis. Only ski trails and hills you are comfortable on and that are suited to your ability level. If you feel as if you are going to fall, try to let go of your ski poles.
