Skier’s thumb is a sprain or tear of the ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) at the base of the thumb. This ligament is essential for thumb stability and allows you to grip, pinch, and grasp objects securely.
Is this an emergency?
No, most Skier’s Thumb injuries are not an emergency however if the injury involves an open wound seek urgent medical assessment.
Please contact 1300HANDOC for treatment advice and further instructions.
- Swelling
- Bruising
- Tender / Painful
- Instability
- Skiing accidents (falling while holding a ski pole)
- Sports-related injuries
- Contact sports (e.g. football tackles)
- Falls onto an outstretched hand
- Accidents that force the thumb backwards or sideways
- History and Mechanism of Injury
- Clinical examination
- Xrays and if required, ultrasound or MRI
If the ligament is not torn, then conservative treatment including splinting is required.
If the UCL is torn, then surgery is required to repair the ligament.
Contact 1300HANDOC to discuss the recommended treatment pathway based on the injury.
1300 426 362