Ligamentous injuries of the hand in athletes

Injuries to the small joints of the hand are prevalent in both professional and amateur athletes. The majority of these injuries result in partial tears of the capsular support structures and can be successfully treated by precise splinting followed by thorough rehabilitation. In contrast, optimal management of complex dislocations or complete ligament ruptures causing serious joint instability necessitates operative intervention to secure reduction and facilitate ligament healing. There is an enviable satisfaction in observing a recovered athlete perform to the limits of his or her abilities, unimpaired by any residual disability or deformity. This goal can only be achieved by the timely institution of skillful management.