Ligament Injuries – Thumb UCL

Thumb Ulnar Collateral Ligament Injuries

Thumb ulnar collateral ligament injury most commonly occurs during physical activities such as playing football and baseball. The ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) is a specialized soft tissue that maintains normal joint movement. One version of this injury is called a Skier’s Thumb because it happens when a skier falls and the pole is ripped away from their hand. 

Diagnosing Thumb Ulnar Collateral Ligament Injury

Often thumb ulnar collateral ligament injury presents as pain and swelling along the inside of the thumb combined with weakness when trying to grasp or pinch. 

To find out if you have a UCL injury, Dr. Galle will ask a few questions to better understand how and when your symptoms began. He will also perform a physical examination and possibly order imaging to confirm the exact diagnosis and the extent of your particular injury. Imaging can include radiographs, ultrasound, stress radiographs or even an MRI. 

Thumb Ulnar Collateral Ligament Injury Treatment Options

There are many common treatments for a thumb UCL injury and it largely depends on the severity of your particular tear. Simple, partial tears can be treated with splints or casts, while complete injuries require surgery in order to achieve a full recovery. Thumb ulnar collateral ligament injury can be quite painful. With Dr. Galle on your side, you can expect a personalized treatment plan designed to help you achieve the best outcome possible for your specific injury.