What is the best way to heal a sprained thumb?
Emily Sparks What is the best way to heal a sprained thumb?
Treatment
- Rest. Try not use your hand for at least 48 hours.
- Ice. Apply ice immediately after the injury to keep the swelling down.
- Compression. Wear an elastic compression bandage to reduce swelling.
- Elevation. As often as possible, rest with your hand raised up higher than your heart.
How long does a sprained thumb take to stop hurting?
Minor sprains can heal in as few as 2 weeks. More severe sprains can take 6 to 12 weeks, or longer. Anyone who experiences thumb pain, particularly if it lasts longer than a few days should see a doctor.
Should you massage a sprained thumb?
Another exercise that helps to aid recovery from a sprain is to massage the knuckle and the muscles that attach to it, as this will increase blood flow and hopefully speed the recovery. To prevent the condition from becoming chronic you should avoid repetitive use of the thumb until the pain is significantly better.
Should you exercise a sprained thumb?
To treat a minor sprain, your doctor will have you wear a thumb spica splint or a cast to keep your thumb from moving. After about six weeks, the splint or cast is removed. Your thumb will be stiff after not using it for six weeks, so your doctor will then recommend exercises to get back full control of your thumb.
How do you tell if your thumb is broken or just sprained?
They often include:
- Pain and discomfort at the base of the thumb.
- Bruising at the base of the thumb.
- Swelling at the base of the thumb.
- Stiffness.
- Tenderness of the thumb, towards the palm of your hand.
- If the ligament is completely torn, the end of the torn ligament may cause a lump on the thumb.
How do you tell if your thumb is sprained or just bruised?
Signs of a Sprained Thumb
- Swelling.
- Bruising.
- Pain.
- Weakness.
- Trouble performing daily activities such as writing or holding a glass.
How do I know if my thumb is fractured or sprained?
Will a thumb ligament heal itself?
A torn ligament cannot fully heal itself. Surgery for the thumb collateral ligaments is usually done as an outpatient procedure, meaning you will probably go home the same day as the surgery.
How do I know if I tore a ligament in my thumb?
How do I know if I have torn a ligament in my thumb?
Symptoms
- Pain and severe swelling on the inner part of the thumb immediately after the injury.
- Pain and severe swelling on the base of the thumb immediately, or shortly after the injury.
- Weakness and instability during grasp or writing.
- Loss of motion when attempting to move the thumb circular.
How long will a sprained thumb take to heal?
Minor sprains can heal in as few as 2 weeks. More severe sprains can take 6 to 12 weeks, or longer. Anyone who experiences thumb pain, particularly if it lasts longer than a few days should see a doctor. Even though most sprains do not require treatment, a doctor might recommend a splint and ensure that there is no additional damage.
How to heal a sprained thumb?
Rest the Thumb. Thumb sprains are caused usually when the connective tissues get damaged or when the thumb muscles get overstretched.
How can you Sprain Your Thumb?
A thumb sprain can be caused when you hit your thumb forcefully against a hard surface or bend your thumb too far in one direction. Trying to soften a fall with your outstretched hand and hitting your thumb on the ground is the most common cause of a thumb sprain.
How do you treat a sprained thumb?
Elevation: During the first 24 hours after your injury, try to keep your injured hand elevated to reduce swelling. Your doctor may also suggest that you take an anti-inflammatory medication (such as aspirin, ibuprofen, or naproxen) to help with your pain.