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did I break my thumb while picking up a can?
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Bone and Orthopedic Conditions
Question #21555
244 days ago
503

did I break my thumb while picking up a can?

Trinity

Three days ago, I bent over and picked up a can when I stood up my thumb knuckle on the inside was purple and hurt. Then a few hours later it was red and swollen, so I put a splint on it and it has been getting worse even with the splint and compression..

Age: 18
Chronic illnesses: Crohn’s, endometriosis, possible EDS, and a chronic headache that is unknown.
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Doctors' responses

Based on your description, this is most likely a soft tissue injury of the thumb, such as a ligament sprain, small tear, or minor blood vessel injury, that occurred when you bent and stood up (possibly due to sudden strain or awkward movement).

Why this happened: The purple discoloration suggests bruising (bleeding under the skin). The later redness, swelling, and pain indicate inflammation. Even without a direct hit, small ligaments or vessels around the thumb joint can be injured. Why it may feel worse despite splinting: Swelling often peaks 48–72 hours after injury Compression that is too tight can increase pain and redness Ongoing inflammation can persist even with immobilization

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Hello Trinity Thanks for letting me know. Since you don’t have fever, pus, or numbness, but your thumb is still getting worse despite splinting, it’s important not to ignore these symptoms. Persistent pain, swelling, and color changes after an injury can mean a fracture or ligament injury.

The best next step is to get your thumb checked by a doctor as soon as possible. They may recommend an X-ray to rule out a fracture or other injury. In the meantime, keep your hand elevated, avoid using the thumb, and apply ice (wrapped in a cloth) for 10–15 minutes every few hours to help with swelling.

Rx- Diclofenac gel - apply thrice a day Tab Zerodol sp - twice a day after food Apply cold ice compress - thrice a day

Thank you

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Sudden purple discoloration followed by worsening pain and swelling after a minor movement suggests a ligament/tendon injury, joint subluxation, or a small bleed/hematoma, which can be more likely if EDS is present, and splinting alone may not be enough. Worsening despite rest and compression is a red flag, especially with increasing swelling, color change, numbness, or reduced movement. Please see an orthopedic specialist or visit urgent care for examination and imaging (X-ray/ultrasound) to rule out fracture, ligament tear, or vascular issues and get proper treatment.

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Hello dear See as per clinical history it seems minor sprain only. Iam suggesting some precautions and medication for improvement. Please follow them for atleast a week Diclofenac sodium gel topical application twice a day for 2 weeks Tablet Voveron xr 50 mg twice a day for 5 days Hot fomentation application Crave bandage if needed In case of no improvement in 1 week consult orthopedic surgeon in person for better clarity and accordingly get the tests recommended by concerned physician Regards

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Hello,

It’s unlikely you broke your thumb just by picking up a can, but your symptoms are concerning.

Sudden purple bruising + increasing swelling and pain suggests a ligament injury, tendon strain, or joint bleed, not a simple bruise.

If pain and swelling are getting worse after 3 days, even with a splint, you need an X-ray to rule out a fracture.

With possible EDS, ligament injuries can be more severe and heal slower.

🛑🛑Get urgent medical care if you have: severe pain, increasing redness/warmth, numbness, inability to move the thumb, or fever.

For now:

keep it splinted, elevated, iced, and avoid using it—but don’t delay evaluation.

Oint. lenin d - apply over painful area gently Tab Zerodol SP 1-0-1 after food

I trust this helps Thank you

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It sounds like you might have sustained an injury to your thumb, possibly a sprain or a fracture, although diagnosing without an examination would be speculative. The purple discoloration suggests bruising or bleeding under the skin, and the swelling is indicative of inflammation which is typical following an injury. Splinting and compression are generally good initial measures, but if the pain and swelling persist or worsen, it might indicate more than a minor strain. You may want to assess further. Since the symptoms are not improving, it would be prudent to seek medical review – an X-ray may be necessary to rule out a fracture. If it’s a fracture, proper alignment and immobilization is essential for healing. In the meantime, keeping the thumb elevated and continuing ice packs can help manage the swelling. Avoid using the thumb as much as possible. Pain management with over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen can help with discomfort. However, be cautious and follow dosage instructions to avoid any side effects. If at any point you notice numbness, tingling, or inability to move your thumb, these are signs that require prompt attention, suggesting nerve involvement or severe structural damage. Getting a proper diagnosis ensures appropriate treatment, which is key to recovery.

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Hello Trinit, thank you for sharing your concern. According to what you mentioned, there are chances of a bone being fractured in your thumb. Kindly get an X-ray of the affected thumb in AP & Lateral views. Share the x-ray image with me.

Regards, Dr. Nirav Jain MBBS, DNB D.Fam.Medicine

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