What is Skier’s Thumb?
The stability of the human hand relies on the ligaments to stabilize both the thumb and fingers. An injury to these structures can greatly affect the ability to grip, write and impair the functional use of the hand for everyday tasks such as fastening clothing, opening containers and performing daily tasks at home, work or for leisure. An injury to the ligament between the two bones on the interior side of the thumb is often referred to as Skier’s thumb. The term Skier’s thumb originates in the event a skier tries to brace from a fall and lands on an outstretched hand and thumb, while holding on to a ski pole. This causes the thumb to bend sideways, causing a sprain or even a tear in the Ulnar Collateral Ligament, or UCL of the thumb.
Shin Splints in Gymnasts
Medial Tibial Stress Syndrome is more commonly known as “Shin Splints.” This syndrome describes pain on the front and side of the shin bone in the lower leg. Shin splints are common in running and jumping athletes including gymnasts who run and tumble frequently.
Return to Sports Stronger: Tips from a Physical Therapist
2020 has been a difficult and disappointing year for many high school athletes. Beginning with the cancellation of winter and spring seasons and now with fall/winter sports again in jeopardy, many athletes have missed a significant portion of their high school career. While there is nothing to replace the feeling of playing in games, there are many ways to stay active, remain competitive, and continue training for your sport. Here are some ideas from a physical therapist on how to stay in optimal shape in preparation for the return of athletics.
When to Ice for Injuries
Have you ever experienced an injury and wondered if you should ice? It’s usually a great idea, but there are some rules you need to follow so you don’t worsen your injury. Read below to learn, “is ice helpful?” and “when do I ice for an injury?”
Wrist Pain in Tumbling Athletes
Tumbling athletes, including gymnasts and cheerleaders, place unique demands on their upper body. When tumbling, the athlete places not only their entire body weight through the hands but can have up to 16 times their body weight in force going across the wrist.1 Due to these extreme conditions, pain in the wrist can occur.
An Athletic Trainer’s Role in Return to Sports
As fall begins, many schools have begun working towards a sports season that may allow high school or youth athletes to practice and compete. Depending on the state you are in, the level of participation may vary, but the goal is to begin offering a semblance of normalcy that brings back what people love. This return to sports has many moving parts, from the CDC and county health officials, to school administrators and health care providers; many people are involved in trying to keep athletes healthy if they choose to participate. For many schools, an athletic trainer is involved in nearly every discussion.
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Concussions in Gymnasts: Symptoms and Treatment
Gymnastics is considered a high risk sport for head and neck injuries. A concussion is a traumatic brain injury that can occur from a direct or indirect force on the head. In gymnastics this can be the result of falling on the head, collision with equipment, collision with another athlete, or a fall where the head does not directly take the blow but a whiplash type movement occurs. In each of these scenarios, the brain moves rapidly inside the skull.
Shin Pain in Athletes
Shin splints are a common condition among athletes especially in running and jumping sports. What exactly are shin splints, what causes them and what is the most effective treatment for them? Read on as we discuss these answers and more!
