How do I know if I tore a ligament in my thumb?
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 treat a torn tendon in your thumb?
Rest: Avoid typing and other activities that require a lot of thumb movement. Wear a splint if recommended. Ice: Apply ice to the injury for 20 minutes at a time and repeat at regular intervals, four to eight times per day. Medication: Take nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen.
How long does it take for a pulled tendon in your thumb to heal?
Depending on the location of the injury, it can take up to 3 months for the repaired tendon to regain its previous strength. Rehabilitation involves protecting your tendons from overuse using a hand splint. You’ll usually need to wear a hand splint for several weeks after surgery.
Can you move your thumb if you tore a ligament?
A tear to this ligament can be painful and may make your thumb feel unstable. It may also weaken your ability to grasp objects between your thumb and index finger. Treatment for a sprained thumb usually involves wearing a splint or cast to keep the thumb from moving while the ligament heals.
Can a torn tendon heal without surgery?
In some cases, the affected tendon can’t heal properly without surgical intervention. This problem commonly occurs with major tendon tears. If left unattended, the tendon will not heal on its own and you will have lasting repercussions.
What are the treatments for a torn tendon?
Physical Therapy. Treatments to mend a torn tendon include restoring the tissue’s strength, flexibility and endurance. Physical therapy should start with gentle stretches of the pulled muscle and tendon area, followed by a gradual re-establishment of the patient’s usual exercise routine.
How long does it take for a torn thumb ligament?
A torn ligament can take anywhere from two weeks to several months to heal, depending on other factors of the injury like the person’s age and where the injury occurred.
What are the symptoms of a torn ligament?
The signs of a torn ligament can vary depending on the severity of the injury, as can the treatments for such injuries. Pain is, of course, one of the most common signs of a torn ligament, though pain can be accompanied by bruising, swelling, immobility, and even a popping sound when the ligament tears.
How do you treat a sprained thumb?
Taking an anti-inflammatory medication, like ibuprofen, can reduce the swelling and pain of a sprained thumb. A cold compress can be applied to a sprained thumb to provide relief and reduce swelling.