Damage to the Ulnar collateral ligament of the thumb, or 'Skier's Thumb' as it is more commonly known, accounts for 10% of all skiing injuries. Skier's Thumb is usually caused during a fall when the ski pole is held in the hand, catches in the snow and acts as a lever against the inside of the base of the thumb. This injury is also common in rugby players and soccer goalkeepers.
Severe cases of Skier's Thumb where there is a ligament rupture can
cause joint instability and require surgery, but even a ligament sprain can
ruin your winter sports holiday. As ever, it is better to prevent injury if
possible and that is where the Thumb Stabiliser can be useful.
The
Thumb Stabiliser helps to protect the MetaCarpo-Phalangeal (MCP) joint
at the base of the thumb, without limiting hand movement and function.
It is the self help alternative, for those who don't have a sports
physiotherapist to regularly tape their thumb. The Thumb Stabiliser
fits snugly around the base of the thumb and can be custom fitted using
the velcro straps around the wrist and thumb. Enclosed lightweight
metal side stays provide complete support and protection.
Anyone
with a thumb sprain or dislocation of the thumb joint will be advised
to wear a Thumb Stabiliser for protective support.
The Thumb Stabiliser can also be worn by skiers, under their gloves to help reduce the risk of thumb damage during a fall.
Rugby players, American footballers, handball players, soccer goalkeepers
and Australian Rules Football players can also benefit from the protection
provided by the Thumb Stabiliser.
Thumb Stabilisers are most often used by people who are undergoing rehabilitation for a thumb sprain or a rupture of the Ulna collateral ligament of the thumb – Skiers Thumb. Following injury the ligament is extremely vulnerable to re-injury and the Thumb Stabiliser provides support and re-assurance that prevents further damage.
The Thumb Stabiliser can also be used as a preventative measure by those
individuals who are at risk of damaging the Ulnar collateral ligament
of the thumb.
Prevention of thumb injuries
Skier's thumb
Sprained thumb
Dislocated thumb
Following thumb surgery
The Mueller Thumb Stabiliser is a high quality, adjustable thumb brace that provides extra protection and support for the thumb and fits under skiing gloves. Use the product link below to view our product guide and find out more about the Mueller Thumb Stabiliser.
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