Left Thumb Sprain Recovery: Treatment and Future Implications - Rehabilitation

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Suspected sprain of the left thumb?


Hello, doctor.
Recently, I suspected that I sprained my left thumb due to a car accident.
At the time of the incident, I was unable to straighten my finger.
I was later taken to the emergency room, where an X-ray was performed, and the doctor said there were no bone injuries.
The next day, due to persistent swelling in my hand and continued inability to straighten it, I sought treatment from a traditional Chinese medicine practitioner.
I underwent treatment for nearly three weeks to almost a month, which included topical medication, massage, and electrical therapy.
My hand condition has improved; the swelling has subsided, and I can straighten it, but there is a slight difference in angle compared to my right hand.

I tried to assist my left thumb to its maximum angle using my right hand; I can push it without pain, but my left thumb feels weaker in daily activities.
For instance, when twisting a towel, I can only twist it somewhat and cannot fully wring it out (which causes slight pain).
If I accidentally bump the joint of my left thumb (near the web space), I experience slight pain, while my right hand does not have this issue.
I would like to ask the doctor what the reason for this might be and what treatment you would recommend going forward.
Since it does not affect my daily functional activities, what would happen if I leave it untreated?

Xiao Yu, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/07/03

Dr. Wang Zhaomin reply Rehabilitation


Injuries to the tendons, ligaments, or joint capsules of the hand can lead to persistent symptoms that may not resolve.
If not properly managed, this can result in ongoing pain and weakness, affecting daily life.
A proper assessment can only be made through an in-person examination and evaluation; online consultations cannot replace an actual visit.
Please seek care from an orthopedic or rehabilitation specialist for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan.

Reply Date: 2021/07/03

More Info


In your case, it sounds like you have experienced a left thumb sprain following a car accident, which has led to some lingering symptoms despite initial treatment. It's great to hear that you have seen improvement in terms of swelling and the ability to extend your thumb, but the ongoing weakness and discomfort you describe are concerning and warrant further discussion.

First, let's address the symptoms you're experiencing. The fact that you can extend your thumb but still feel weakness and discomfort suggests that there may be residual soft tissue damage, such as ligamentous strain or inflammation in the surrounding muscles and tendons. Even if X-rays showed no bony injury, soft tissue injuries can take time to heal and may not always present with immediate symptoms. The pain you feel when accidentally bumping the joint could be due to sensitivity in the area as it continues to heal, or it may indicate that the joint is not yet fully stable.

Regarding your question about treatment, since you have already undergone a significant amount of conservative therapy, including traditional Chinese medicine treatments, it may be beneficial to consider a few additional options:
1. Physical Therapy: Engaging in a structured physical therapy program can help strengthen the muscles around your thumb and improve your range of motion. A physical therapist can provide specific exercises tailored to your needs, focusing on both strength and flexibility. This can also help in addressing any compensatory patterns that may have developed due to the injury.

2. Occupational Therapy: An occupational therapist can assist you in regaining functional use of your thumb, especially for tasks like wringing out a towel. They can provide adaptive techniques and tools to help you perform daily activities without pain.

3. Gradual Return to Activity: It's important to gradually reintroduce activities that involve your thumb. Start with gentle movements and progressively increase the intensity as tolerated. Avoiding activities that cause pain is crucial, as pushing through pain can lead to further injury.

4. Pain Management: If you continue to experience pain, consider discussing pain management strategies with your healthcare provider. This could include over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications, topical treatments, or other modalities.

As for the long-term implications of leaving the injury untreated, it is essential to understand that while you may not currently experience significant functional limitations, unresolved issues can lead to chronic pain or instability in the joint. This could potentially affect your ability to perform tasks that require fine motor skills or grip strength in the future.
In summary, while your injury may not severely impact your daily life now, addressing the lingering symptoms through targeted rehabilitation is essential to ensure full recovery and prevent future complications. If you notice any worsening of symptoms or new issues arise, it would be wise to consult with a healthcare professional for further evaluation. Regular follow-ups can help monitor your progress and adjust your treatment plan as needed.

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