Conditions & Diagnoses: A-Z

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Fracture of the Thumb

Definition:
A break, especially the breaking of a bone or cartilage in the thumb.
Symptoms:
  • Pain in the thumb
  • Swelling in the thumb
  • Loss of ROM in the thumb
  • Bruising
  • Possible deformity in the thumb
  • Pain with gripping
Causes:
  • Direct blow
  • Fall
  • Twisting or muscle contractions
Treatment:
  • Period of immobilization
  • Progress to ROM and stretching exercises
  • Hand intrinsic muscle strengthening
  • Upper extremity strengthening