Thumb injuries, such as fractures, sprains, tendonitis, and skin damage, are common among athletes and can also occur during daily activities. RICE treatment is often sufficient for minor injuries, while more severe cases may require surgery or medication. Falls and overuse are common causes of thumb injuries.
Some of the more common types of thumb injuries include bone fractures, ligament sprains, impact bruises, tendon and tendon injuries, and skin damage to the thumb. Athletes are much more likely to suffer thumb injuries, although others may injure their thumb during daily activities. Falls are one of the most common causes of such injuries, and overuse of the thumb can also cause problems. Accidents leading to impacts such as car accidents can also cause damage to the thumb, and in many cases, those injuries are accompanied by other conditions affecting the hands or arms.
A thumb fracture is one of the most common injuries and occurs when the bone in the thumb breaks. This crack can be very minor, requiring only minimal treatment, or it can be more serious and require intensive treatment that may involve surgery. Minor fractures can be treated with RICE treatment; RICE stands for Rest, Ice, Compression and Elevation. These actions help promote blood flow to the affected area and help reduce swelling and pain. Letting the injury rest for a significant amount of time and preventing it from moving can help the bone heal on its own. More serious injuries of the fractured thumb may require surgical treatment to keep the bone intact.
A thumb sprain occurs when the ligaments that connect bones in a joint become overstretched, torn, or otherwise damaged. Such thumb injuries can lead to swelling and pain is likely in the affected area. Like other minor to moderate injuries, RICE treatment is often sufficient to allow the sprained thumb ligament to heal, although more severe sprains may require more aggressive treatment. A doctor can prescribe anti-inflammatory or pain-relieving medications to help heal the injury and minimize pain.
Tendonitis can also affect the thumb. This condition occurs when the tendons that connect muscles to bones become inflamed, causing pain in the joint. Inflammation can be caused by a number of different conditions, including overuse; improper use; an injury or trauma to the thumb; or bursitis, which occurs when a fluid-filled sac called a bursa becomes inflamed. Treatment for tendonitis often also includes RICE treatment, but if the condition is severe or chronic, it’s important to visit a doctor. More aggressive treatments may involve steroid injection or even surgery to address the inflamed tendon.
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