Certified Hand Therapist Exam Practice 2025 – Complete Study Resource

The appropriate intervention for thumb ligament injuries in hand therapy often involves rest, immobilization, and possibly splinting. This approach allows for the healing of the injured ligaments by minimizing movement and stress on the affected area. Rest is crucial, as it prevents exacerbation of the injury and allows tissue repair to begin. Immobilization is typically achieved using a splint, which serves to stabilize the thumb while it heals, preventing further damage.

In the initial stages following an injury, it's essential to manage symptoms such as pain and swelling, and resting the joint and using a splint can significantly aid in this. Once the healing process is underway, a hand therapist may introduce a graded rehabilitation program, including range-of-motion exercises and strengthening activities as tolerated, but the focus initially remains on protection and healing.

This method is widely endorsed in clinical practice and aligns with the principles of conservative management for ligamentous injuries, thereby promoting optimal recovery and functionality of the thumb. Other interventions, such as surgical options or steroid injections, are typically reserved for cases that do not respond to conservative treatment or in specific types of injuries that require more urgent intervention, not as first-line standard care.