How long will a sprained thumb take to heal?

If routine, <6 wks: Most thumb sprains are from falling on an outstretched hand such as skiing or snow boarding. Most routine sprains are mild and respond to hand based splinting within 4-6 weeks. More severe sprains after 4 weeks tend to show no improvement. All of these injuries need an early x-ray to rule out a fracture. More severe sprains often need surgical attention as symptoms persist despite bracing.

3-6 months: If there is no fracture seen on x-ray and the joints are stable to ligament testing then sprains or soft tissue injuries of the thumb and fingers can take months to become pain free the sooner full motion is obtained the sooner the pain will subside.