Skiers Thumb

This is a common injury among footballers and skiers (hence the name!) but can affect lots of people in everyday movement. It involves an injury to the ulnar collateral ligament (base of the thumb in the web space between thumb and index finger).

Skier’s thumb is caused by a strain or tear in the ligament that supports the thumb joint. It often occurs due to a sudden hyperextension (backwards) force to the thumb.

It is common in football, basketball and netball but most often happens in skiing when the ski pole gets jammed against the thumb.

The treatment of skier’s thumb differs depending on how badly the ligament is injured. In some cases, it is best to keep freedom in the joint to prevent unnecessary stiffness. But in most cases we use our custom made thermoplastic waterproof orthosis to immobilize the injury and allow between 2-8 weeks for it to heal.

We will tailor a home exercise plan, such as range of motion and strengthening exercises. This common sporting injury usually require a guard which we can fabricate (as appropriate) to facilitate an early and safe return to sport.