The danger in a handshake—an unusual case of ulnar collateral ligament rupture

Abstract

Rupture of the ulnar collateral ligaments of the thumb are common athletic injuries [1,2]. Originally described in Scottish gamekeepers, who sustained the injury by breaking the necks of injured hares, ulnar collateral ligament injury now most often and with increasing frequency occurs in skiers who fall holding onto ski poles, resulting in the term “skier’s thumb” [3]. It is also very common among basketball players and in grappling sports like wrestling and the martial arts. We describe a tear of the ulnar collateral ligament caused by a trivial force and occurring in the unusual and unique situation of a simple handshake.