The patient has a painful, swollen thumb at the MCP joint that can usually be localized to the area ripped. Most times, the far end of the ligament pulls off the base of the Proximal Phalanx. If the joint is stable after the injury, four weeks of thumb spica immobilization are usually adequate to allow healing. If the joint is not stable, it gaps or moves out of position with stress. In these instances, surgery is the treatment of choice.
Surgery done early can involve ligament repair and pinning.
Surgery done late may also require using a portion of a tendon from the wrist to rebuild or reconstruct this vital ulnar collateral ligament. In conclusion, avoid Skier's Thumb injuries by learning how to fall, learning how to let go of the ski poles, avoiding bad weather, and correctly estimating one's skiing ability. The University of Iowa. All rights reserved.