Thumb Fracture
What is it: A fracture of one of the bones of the thumb.
How does it present: Often presents after trauma to the area with pain, swelling, and bruising.
Common exam findings: On exam, swelling and bruising may be present. In addition, tenderness over the injury or while axially loading the thumb may be present. Always insure that the patient is neurovascularly intact.
Tests and treatment: X-rays should be able to evaluate for thumb fractures. Fracture care depends on the involved bone, evidence of displacement or angulation, and evidence of joint involvement. Fractures that do have displacement or angulation and those that generally involve greater than 25% of the joint space should be considered for orthopedic referral.