{"id":712,"date":"2012-12-19T03:37:45","date_gmt":"2012-12-19T03:37:45","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/handsurgeonsnyc.com\/?page_id=712"},"modified":"2020-01-29T18:03:05","modified_gmt":"2020-01-29T22:03:05","slug":"skiers-thumb","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/handsurgeonsnyc.com\/skiers-thumb\/","title":{"rendered":"Skier\u2019s Thumb"},"content":{"rendered":"
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Picture of procedure in operation room to treat Skier\u2019s Thumb, Stener lesion.<\/p><\/div>\n

What is Skier\u2019s Thumb<\/h2>\n

Skier\u2019s Thumb\u2014also commonly called Gamekeeper\u2019s Thumb (or even Breakdancer\u2019s Thumb)\u2014occurs when the strong band of ligamentous tissue that supports the joint where the thumb meets the palm nearest to the index finger is torn by breaking a fall with the thumb, levering it away from the index finger (as when holding a ski pole). This is known as the ulnar collateral ligament. <\/p>\n

Sometimes, there is a fracture which occurs as the ligament is stretched pulling away with a bone fragment attached, occurring generally from the phalanx.<\/p>\n

Reverse Skier\u2019s Thumb is a disabling injury, in which the very important ligament on the other side of the joint is torn. When a patient is diagnosed with Reverse Skier\u2019s Thumb, the same treatments are generally used.<\/p>\n

Signs and Symptoms of Skier\u2019s Thumb<\/h2>\n

Metacarpophalangeal joint instability may present similarly to other orthopedic conditions of the thumb and hand. However, patients may notice the following prior to their appointment: <\/p>\n