Before you channel your inner doctor after a tumble while playing or a mishap at home, let’s chat about why fixing a dislocated thumb on your own may not be the best idea. A dislocated thumb is a condition that’s not only painful but can lead to serious complications if not handled properly.
Let’s say you’re in the middle of an intense volleyball match, you reach out to serve the ball, then bam! If your thumb took the brunt of the impact, the surrounding tissues, ligaments, and nerves may be damaged! This could even lead to a full-blown misalignment that needs professional eyes and hands to access and treat it properly.
Not convinced and still think you could do it yourself? Well, here are some eye-opening dangers of self-treating injuries that could definitely change your mind.
You Could Make the Injury Worse
A dislocated thumb joint means intense force has pushed the bones out of their normal alignment. Trying to pop the joint back on your own can damage surrounding ligaments, tendons, or nerves. Worse, you might turn a simple dislocation into a fracture or tear.
You Might Misdiagnose the Injury
A dislocated thumb may resemble a sprain or even a fracture. Without medical imaging, such as an X-ray, it’s almost impossible to know the extent of the injury.
Self-treating without knowing the severity may ignore needed treatments such as surgery. Always consult a healthcare provider to determine the exact nature of your injury.
Risk of Long-Term Damage
Improper thumb dislocation treatment can lead to chronic instability or arthritis in the joint. These conditions can limit thumb movement, making tasks such as writing or opening jars harder. Seeking professional care minimizes the chances of these complications and ensures proper healing.
Infection Is a Real Danger
If there’s any break in the skin around your thumb, attempting to fix it yourself increases the risk of infection. Infections in the hands can be severe, as they can spread quickly and need intensive treatment. A medical professional can assess the injury, clean the area, and provide antibiotics if necessary.
You Need the Right Equipment
Thumb joint dislocation treatment often involves tools such as splints, braces, or even surgical intervention. Proper equipment is essential to stabilize the joint correctly after repositioning. Medical professionals have the skills and equipment to ensure your thumb heals properly.
How to Treat a Dislocated Thumb
Trying to fix a dislocated thumb yourself is risky and very painful. The best approach to treating a dislocated thumb is to avoid attempting to fix it yourself.
Instead of DIY treatments, follow these best practices for thumb injuries:
- Immobilize the Thumb: Use a splint or wrap to keep the thumb stable
- Apply Ice: Ice the area for 15-20 minutes every few hours to reduce pain
- Seek Professional Thumb Dislocation Care: Visit a doctor or emergency room immediately
- Follow Recovery Guidelines: After receiving care, follow instructions for splinting, therapy, and rest
By leaving the treatment to the experts, you’re taking the right steps toward a safe and speedy recovery.
Get Proper Care From the Experts at Idaho Shoulder to Hand
A dislocated thumb isn’t something you should try to handle on your own. The dangers of self-treating injuries, such as a dislocated thumb, are too high to risk. Instead, focus on proper treatment to protect your thumb’s long-term function and health.
Are you in Boise needing care for a shoulder, elbow, wrist, or hand injury? Idaho Shoulder to Hand is here to help. Contact Idaho Shoulder to Hand today for expert diagnosis, treatment, and advanced surgery for shoulder-to-hand injuries.
Your recovery begins when you trust the experts!
