A fractured thumb is a break in one of the bones of this digit. Contrary to common belief, movement is often still possible even with a significant bone injury. This can be misleading and delay proper medical attention.
Understanding Thumb Fractures and Movement
The thumb’s unique structure, with two phalanges and a metacarpal bone, allows for a wide range of motion through its joints. A fracture occurs when one of these bones breaks.
Movement can persist even with a fracture due to several factors. Hairline fractures, which are fine cracks, or non-displaced fractures, where fragments remain aligned, might still allow some degree of motion. Fractures at the base of the metacarpal, such as a Bennett’s fracture, can still permit some thumb movement because surrounding muscle attachments may maintain partial stability.
Continuing to use a thumb with an undiagnosed fracture can lead to further displacement of bone fragments, increased damage to surrounding soft tissues like ligaments and tendons, and potentially delay the healing process. Improper healing can increase the risk of long-term complications, including chronic pain or arthritis.
Recognizing the Symptoms and When to Seek Medical Attention
Beyond the ability to move the thumb, several other symptoms indicate a potential fracture and warrant prompt medical evaluation. Persistent pain, which often worsens with movement or pressure, is a common sign. Swelling around the injured area can also develop shortly after the injury.
The thumb may exhibit tenderness to the touch, particularly directly over the fracture site. A visible deformity or a misshapen appearance of the thumb is a strong indicator of a fracture. Individuals might also experience difficulty gripping or pinching objects, or a limited range of motion.
Any combination of these symptoms, especially following a traumatic event like a fall or sports injury, should prompt immediate medical attention. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment are important for proper bone healing and to prevent complications.
Immediate Steps and What to Expect During Recovery
If a thumb fracture is suspected, immediate first aid measures can help manage symptoms while awaiting medical care. Rest the injured hand and avoid putting any pressure or weight on the thumb. Applying an ice pack to the injured area for 15-20 minutes every 2-3 hours can help reduce swelling and pain. Elevating the hand above the heart can also help minimize swelling. Do not attempt to straighten or “set” the bone yourself.
Upon seeking medical attention, a doctor will typically perform a physical examination of the injured thumb, assessing for pain, swelling, and range of motion. X-rays are the primary diagnostic tool used to confirm a fracture, determine its type, and assess the extent of the bone damage. In some cases, specialized X-ray views may be needed to visualize specific areas of the thumb, such as the carpometacarpal (CMC) joint.
Treatment approaches for a fractured thumb vary depending on the fracture’s location and severity. Non-displaced fractures or those in the shaft of the bone may be treated non-surgically with immobilization using a splint or a cast, such as a thumb spica cast, for approximately 4 to 6 weeks.
Displaced fractures, or those involving joints like Bennett’s or Rolando’s fractures at the base of the thumb metacarpal, often require reduction (realigning the bone fragments) and may necessitate surgical intervention with pins, wires, plates, or screws to stabilize the fracture. After the initial healing period, which can range from 3 to 6 weeks for bone healing, physical therapy is often recommended to help regain full strength, flexibility, and range of motion in the thumb.