Gamekeeper’s Thumb

Original Editor - Lucinda hampton Top Contributors - Ravi Kumar, Rachael Lowe, Lucinda hampton, Admin, Scott A Burns, Kim Jackson, Fasuba Ayobami and Wanda van Niekerk

Definition/Description

Gamekeeper's thumb, also known as Skier's thumb, is an injury that affects the Ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) of the thumb. The UCL is a band of tissue that connects the thumb to the hand and helps to stabilize the thumb joint. The injury occurs when the thumb is bent backward or sideways, causing the UCL to stretch or tear.

The term "gamekeeper's thumb" first originated from Scottish gamekeepers, who frequently experienced this injury due to their work involving repetitive use of their hands. Over time, the term became commonly used to describe injuries to the UCL of the thumb. Sometime Gamekeeper's thumb is called as Skier's thumb because it is most commonly caused by a fall on an outstretched hand, such as when skiing or snowboarding, but there are some key differences between the both conditions.

Etiology

Gamekeeper's thumb can be caused by various activities that involve forceful or repetitive thumb movements, such as skiing, playing sports, or using tools. The injury can also occur from a single traumatic event, such as a fall or a blow to the thumb. The severity of the injury depends on how much the UCL is damaged and whether it is partially or completely torn.

Go to the above link to find a full explanation of this condition and all relevant information. The short video below shows an overview of the condition