Skier's thumb: a literature review

Skier's thumb is defined as an acute injury to the ulnar collateral ligament of the metacarpophalangeal joint of the thumb. This review details the history, aetiology, epidemiology, anatomy, diagnosis, surgical and conservative treatment regimes, rehabilitation and current advances in the prevention of skier's thumb. It emphasises the importance of accurate diagnosis of skier's thumb, and appropriate referral of grade three ruptures for surgery. The need for research by physiotherapists which examines this common soft tissue injury is highlighted throughout the review.