Skier’s or gamekeepers’s thumb

Skier’s (or gamekeeper’s) thumb results from a tear of the ulnar collateral ligament of the thumb. This injury can happen when your thumb is pulled back or to the side, away from your fingers. It often happens when a skier falls on an outstretched hand that is holding a ski pole. The tear can be partial or complete.

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Skier's or gamekeepers's thumb

Skeletal view of hand, with detail of complete tear of ulnar collateral ligament in thumb

Skier's (or gamekeeper's) thumb results from a tear of the ulnar collateral ligament of the thumb. This injury can happen when your thumb is pulled back or to the side, away from your fingers. It often happens when a skier falls on an outstretched hand that is holding a ski pole. The tear can be partial or complete.

Current as ofJune 26, 2019

Author: Healthwise Staff
William H. Blahd, Jr., MD, FACEP - Emergency Medicine
Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine
Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine
Herbert von Schroeder, MD, MSc, FRCS(C) - Orthopedics, Hand and Microvascular Surgery

This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated, disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. Learn how we develop our content.