Which splint is typically used for Gamekeeper's thumb?

Which splint is typically used for Gamekeeper's thumb?

• A. Plaster cast
• B. Wrist brace
• C. Short arm cast
• D. Thumb spica splint

Answer: (D)

Gamekeeper's thumb is an injury to the ulnar collateral ligament at the thumb’s MCP joint. Healing requires immobilizing the thumb to prevent stress on the ligament during pinching and grip. A thumb spica splint specifically immobilizes the thumb’s MCP and CMC joints while allowing some wrist movement, giving targeted protection to the injured ligament during the healing period. This focused immobilization makes it the preferred treatment, as other options don’t provide the same stabilization of the thumb’s MCP joint.

Gamekeeper's thumb is an injury to the ulnar collateral ligament at the thumb’s MCP joint. Healing requires immobilizing the thumb to prevent stress on the ligament during pinching and grip. A thumb spica splint specifically immobilizes the thumb’s MCP and CMC joints while allowing some wrist movement, giving targeted protection to the injured ligament during the healing period. This focused immobilization makes it the preferred treatment, as other options don’t provide the same stabilization of the thumb’s MCP joint.