This is a hereditary condition (that is thought to be passed down from the Vikings.) There may be noticeable thickening of the palmar tissue in the hand and bands of tissue can cause the finger and thumb to become bent.
An assessment will be needed by a specialist hand consultant who may recommend surgery to remove the fibrous bands.
Physiotherapy will be required using splintage, ultrasound and exercise to aid recovery of normal functional hand movement.
Usually the thumb will have had a traumatic incident that has forced it outwards. It is often associated with skiing, especially on dry slopes when the thumb gets caught in the netting.
These are painful injuries that can be slow to recover. Specialised medical opinion is best sought early.
Splintage and specific exercise programmes are often required. Occasionally surgery may be necessary to repair the ligament.
