In plain language
Sprain or rupture of the ulnar stabilizing ligament at the thumb MCP joint, impairing pinch. A displaced complete tear may form a Stener lesion.
Clinical Significance & Management
Stability, avulsion displacement and aponeurotic interposition guide care. Stable partial injuries often use a thumb-spica splint; gross instability, a Stener lesion or unstable bone fragment commonly prompts repair assessment.
Symptoms & Clinical Presentation
Ulnar thumb-base pain, swelling or bruising
Weak pinch or instability
Etiology & Injury Mechanisms
- Forced thumb abduction
- Ski-pole traction, a fall or ball impact
Diagnostics & Imaging Guide
Clinician stress examination and bone tenderness
Radiographs; ultrasound or MRI for displacement when needed
Treatment Options
Splint and activity modification for stable partial injuries
Repair or reconstruction according to instability, tissue and chronicity
Rehabilitation Milestones & Timeline
Rehabilitation depends on the diagnosis, procedure and associated injuries. Progression requires assessment of healing, symptoms and function; elapsed time or a single test cannot determine readiness for sport.
Protect
Limit sideways MCP stress and inspect skin
Move
Resume motion and graded pinch after review
Return
Restore stability, pinch strength and sport control
Evidence-Based Clarifications
Skiing is only one mechanism. Ball sports and falls also cause injury; avoid repeated self-stress testing.
Sources & References
Educational clinical definitions synthesized from AAOS, Cleveland Clinic, Mayo Clinic, and HSS. Individual diagnosis and surgery require professional medical evaluation.
Publication date
Content updated