Thumb fracture

This information leaflet has been provided because you have fractured a bone in your thumb. The information in this
leaflet is to help you understand your injury and the best way to manage it.

A broken thumb is usually caused by landing on it when falling, or a sudden force causing the thumb to pull
backwards such as catching a ball or other object.

If you have sustained a fracture you may experience:

- Pain
- Swelling
- Tenderness
- Reduced movement at the thumb

Recovery times
Most of the healing happens between three to six weeks, but can take several months for you symptoms to settle
completely.

It is good to use your hand in day-to-day activities but remember this is exercise too. Sometimes you might need to
take a rest if your hand aches after doing some activity.

Things that could affect your recovery

Smoking

Smoking slows facture healing times. In some people, it can stop healing altogether. It is suggested to reduce the
amount or stop smoking during the healing phase to ensure the best recovery.

For help to stop smoking you can contact ‘Quit Your Way’ on 0800 783 9132

General health

Some medical conditions may slow down the healing, for example, diabetes

Eating a healthy diet and keeping yourself active will help your recovery.

Medication

It is important that if you are prescribed medication that you take them regularly and at the recommended dose. It is
important to speak with your local pharmacist, practice nurse or GP prior to any change in the dose or the
medication.

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What to expect
This fracture is usually a minor injury and is often treated conservatively. Some people may be fitted with a splint.
You will probably only need a splint for a couple of weeks.

Pain

It is normal to have some discomfort in the areas around your fracture. The areas affected can be:

 Other soft tissues

 Nearby joints
 Areas which have been immobilised
 Pain levels can changes from day to day, it doesn’t always depend on what you are doing. It is not unusual to
have pain while you are resting because the bone is continually healing. It is normal to have some pain even
when your fracture has healed and can take up to 12 months to settle.

Pain Medication

A range of different medications may be available to help reduce your pain to allow you to move comfortably. Do
not exceed the daily allowance even if you pain is high. If you are unsure what to take then speak with your local
pharmacist or GP for guidance.

Swelling

Swelling is the start of healing. It is normal to have it near the fracture first. It can spread into your hand or wrist
areas.

The amount of swelling changes with your position, activity or the time of day.

Even when your fracture has healed it is normal to have some swelling and this can last for months

How can I help the swelling?

 Raise your arm above your heart when you are resting
 Keep the other joints in your hand/arm moving normally
 Avoid too much rest and too much activity
 You can massage the swelling
 Use iced water can help reduce pain and swelling.

Bruising

It is normal to have bruising. Bruising can be widespread and appear a long way from your fracture. It changes
colour as it recovers and can be very purple to start with.

Getting back to normal activities

Driving

Your injury may affect your insurance and you should contact your insurer before driving.

Once you are out of your splint the general advice is you must be able to safely perform an emergency stop or
manoeuvre.

You should always be in full control of your vehicle.

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Work

Your return to work will depend on the type of work you do and your employer. It may be possible to discuss a
phased returned to work or a changed of duties. You don’t need to see a health care professional to return to work.
If you need a fit note then contact your GP.

Daily Activities

Keep doing any activities you are able, as your pain allows. Gradually increase what you do. Reduced flexibility and
strength may make things more difficult to start with. This will get better as you slowly build up to all your usual
activities.

Falls

Loss of confidence is common after a fracture; the below link may help:

https://www.nhsaaa.net/musculoskeletal-service-msk/musculoskeletal-service-msk-falls/falls-msk/

Exercises for your thumb

It is safe to follow these exercises for your injured thumb. Timescales for this are below.

Weeks Plan

0 to 3 weeks
Use for light activities as pain allows, for example, eating, dressing, keyboard work

Increase movement in thumb/fingers/wrist with gentle exercises

Manage your pain and swelling

Wean out of your splint as comfort allows

3 to 6 wks
Gradual return to full function/resume normal day to day activity

Return to higher impact activity and contact sports at six weeks