3. Compression is a tip to treat a sprained thumb.
Compressing a sprained thumb will allow the swelling to go down much quicker. When you compress your thumb, you will wrap an elastic bandage around it. It shouldn’t be wrapped too tightly because if you do it will cause pain and more swelling.
After you compress the sprained thumb, let it rest. It is important after you treat your sprained thumb that it rests. The more it is allowed the rest, the quicker it will heal. Lightly touch the elastic bandage ever so often to see if it feels as if the swelling has gone down. It is a good idea to change the bandage often to wash the thumb and to prevent getting an infection.
If it gets infected, it will take longer to heal and only a doctor can treat it. You want to be able to heal it at home without going to the doctor.