Version July 2025
Please read the Disclaimer at the end of this page.
What are discharge instructions? —
Discharge instructions are information about how to take care of yourself after getting medical care in the emergency department ("ED").
What should I know? —
You came to the ED for a thumb sprain. This means a ligament in your thumb tore or got stretched too much.
You probably have thumb pain, swelling, stiffness, or weakness. You can recover at home.
You might be waiting on test results. The staff will notify you if there are concerning results.
How do I care for myself at home? —
Ask the doctor or nurse what you should do when you go home. Make sure you understand exactly what you need to do to care for yourself. Ask questions if there is anything you do not understand.
You should also do the following:
●Call your regular doctor and tell them you were in the ED. Make a follow-up appointment if you were told to.
●Take non-prescription medicines to relieve pain, if needed. Examples include acetaminophen (sample brand name: Tylenol), ibuprofen (sample brand names: Advil, Motrin), and naproxen (sample brand name: Aleve).
●Rest your thumb. If the doctor gave you a splint, wear it as instructed.
●Ice can help with pain and swelling. Put a cold gel pack, bag of ice, or bag of frozen vegetables on your thumb every 1 to 2 hours, for 15 minutes each time. Put a thin towel between the ice (or other cold object) and your skin. Use the ice (or other cold object) for at least 6 hours after your injury. It might help to ice longer, even up to 2 days. If you have problems with blood flow or numbness in your thumb, check with your regular doctor before using ice.
●Prop your hand on pillows, keeping it raised above the level of your heart. This can help with pain and swelling.
●Slowly start to stretch your thumb once the swelling and pain improve.
When should I call the doctor? —
Call for advice if:
●The pain or swelling gets worse.
●Your thumb is blue or gray and numb.
●You cannot bend your thumb.
●Your thumb feels unstable, you can't grip things normally, or your thumb can be moved into abnormal positions.
●You have new or worsening symptoms.
