What To Do For A Broken Thumb? A broken thumb can severely affect a person’s ability to pick up and hold objects. The bones in the thumb can break in several different ways, and these affect how a doctor will treat a broken thumb.
How serious is a broken thumb? A broken thumb can severely affect a person’s ability to pick up and hold objects. The bones in the thumb can break in several different ways, and these affect how a doctor will treat a broken thumb.
How do you tell if your thumb is broken or just sprained? Is my thumb broken or sprained? Both a broken (fractured) thumb and a sprained thumb can cause pain, swelling and bruising, but there are some differences to look for. A broken thumb usually causes more intense pain, and your thumb may look deformed or misshapen. A broken thumb can also cause numbness or tingling.
What happens if a broken thumb goes untreated?
A bone fracture will need to be realigned and immobilized by a cast, while a torn ligament will require surgery for reattachment. Failing to do this could lead to complications such as deformity, chronic pain, arthritis, stiffness, and/or permanent disability.
What does a hairline fracture in thumb feel like?
Symptoms of a fractured thumb include severe pain, swelling, limited motion or inability to move the thumb, extreme tenderness, a misshapen or deformed appearance, and a sensation of numbness or coldness in the thumb.
Can I still move my thumb if it’s broken?
Symptoms of a broken thumb include: swelling around the base of your thumb. severe pain. limited or no ability to move your thumb.
Should I wrap a sprained thumb?
For a moderate sprain, your doctor will probably immobilize your thumb joint with a bandage, thumb spica cast, or splint until it heals. To ease pain and swelling, you can apply a cold pack to your thumb twice a day for 2 to 3 days after the injury. Do not apply ice directly on your skin.
What does a sprained thumb look like?
When you sprain your thumb, you’ll usually feel pain, discomfort, and stiffness at the base of your thumb near the palm. You may have trouble grabbing or pinching objects, or barely be able to move your thumb. You’ll also see swelling and bruising around the base of your thumb.
What is a thumb brace?
A thumb splint is a specialized brace with a thumb support or “spica”. Many people wear a thumb splint to stop hand or thumb pain. It’s also often used after thumb surgery. But a thumb splint is designed to keep the thumb immobile.
Can a torn 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 long does a hairline fracture in thumb take to heal?
Because it usually takes up to six to eight weeks to completely heal from a hairline fracture, it’s important to modify your activities during that time.
Should you wrap broken hand?
A bandage can sometimes be helpful in restricting the movement of a broken hand or finger to reduce pain. However, if your hand is wrapped with bones misaligned, this can cause more damage. It is best to see a doctor immediately and allow them to wrap your hand and try to keep it still in the meantime.
Should I sleep with a compression bandage on?
The bandage should provide a snug compression, but not restrict blood flow. Please remove compression bandages at night while sleeping. for best results. As swelling reduces it may be necessary to adjust compression bandage.
When should you go to the doctor for a thumb injury?
Usually, the pain associated with a sprain dissipates within two weeks of a simple sprain. If the pain persists generally, on motion, or is not improving within one week of the injury, you should seek further medical attention.