Discharge Instructions for Nondisplaced Left Thumb Fracture
The patient with a nondisplaced left thumb fracture should be instructed to keep the finger splint in place, perform active finger motion exercises of uninvolved joints, and follow up with orthopedics or hand surgery within 1-2 weeks. 1, 2
Splinting Instructions
- Maintain the provided finger splint in the position applied, without attempting to adjust or remove it 2
- The splint should remain in place for 4-6 weeks for proper healing 3
- Keep the splint clean and dry (cover with plastic bag when showering)
- Check daily for skin irritation, pressure points, or signs of poor circulation (numbness, color changes)
- If the splint becomes loose, damaged, or causes increased pain, contact your healthcare provider
Pain Management
- Apply cold therapy (ice pack wrapped in thin towel) to reduce pain and swelling for 15-20 minutes at a time, several times daily for the first 48-72 hours 2
- Take over-the-counter pain medications as prescribed or recommended (typically acetaminophen or NSAIDs if not contraindicated)
- Elevate the hand above heart level when possible to reduce swelling
Activity Guidelines
- Perform active range-of-motion exercises of uninvolved finger joints regularly to prevent stiffness 1
- This includes moving the other fingers through their full range of motion several times daily
- Avoid activities that cause pain or could risk re-injury
- Activity restriction is recommended for 4-6 weeks for minor injuries 1
- Avoid heavy lifting, gripping, or sports activities until cleared by your follow-up provider
Follow-Up Care
- Schedule an appointment with orthopedics or hand surgery within 1-2 weeks
- Radiographic follow-up may be needed to ensure proper healing 1
- Complete healing of the fracture typically takes 6-8 weeks
Warning Signs (Seek Immediate Medical Attention)
- Increasing pain not relieved by prescribed pain medication
- Numbness, tingling, or color changes (blue, purple, or pale) in the thumb 2
- Excessive swelling that doesn't improve with elevation
- Signs of infection (increasing redness, warmth, drainage, or fever)
- Splint becomes too tight or too loose
Rehabilitation Considerations
- After splint removal, gradual return to normal activities will be guided by your provider
- Hand therapy exercises may be recommended to restore strength and mobility
- Full recovery and return to all activities may take 2-3 months 1
Early finger motion of uninvolved joints is critical to prevent stiffness, which is one of the most functionally disabling complications of hand injuries 1. The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons recommends active finger motion exercises following diagnosis of distal radius fractures, and this principle applies to thumb fractures as well 1.