How do you test ulnar collateral ligament for thumb?
To check the ligament, your doctor will perform a valgus stress test. This involves pushing your thumb backwards and out in different positions. Valgus tests can be painful, so you may be given a local anesthetic before being tested. The stress test is done to determine how stable your joint is.
Where is the ulnar collateral ligament thumb?
Most thumb sprains involve the ulnar collateral ligament, which is located on the inside of the knuckle joint. A tear to this ligament can be painful and may make your thumb feel unstable. It may also weaken your ability to grasp objects between your thumb and index finger.
What is a Stener lesion of thumb?
A Stener lesion is a complete tear of the ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) from the thumb proximal phalanx at the level of the metacarpophalangeal (MCP) joint that is displaced superficial to the adductor pollicis aponeurosis, leading to interposition of the aponeurosis between the UCL and the MCP joint.
Can a torn thumb ligament heal itself?
A torn ligament cannot fully heal itself. Surgery for the thumb collateral ligaments is usually done as an outpatient procedure, meaning you will probably go home the same day as the surgery.
Do all stener lesions need surgery?
Type 4: Stener lesion will require surgery in all cases.
How are ulnar collateral ligament injuries diagnosed?
Diagnosis. In most cases, a physician will diagnose an ulnar collateral ligament injury using a patient’s medical history and a physical examination that includes a valgus stress test. The valgus stress test is performed on both arms and a positive test is indicated by pain on the affected arm that is not present on the uninvolved side.
How do ulnar collateral ligament injuries happen?
An ulnar collateral ligament injury most often occurs as a result of sports injuries . Athletes who are skiers and soccer players often sustain this injury. An ulnar collateral ligament injury can also occur as the result of a fall or other trauma .
What is a thumb ligament?
The ulnar collateral ligament of the thumb attaches to the base of the thumb to the distal or furthermost end of the first metacarpal or wrist bone. It functions to stabilize the ulnar or lateral aspect of the first metacarpophalangeal joint (the first joint of the wrist and thumb).
