###Human: I sprained my thumb. Can I skip a doctor visit? ###Assistant: Hi. Your description of pain, the presence of swelling and redness and its site of maximum tenderness makes me worry about what is called the "gamekeepers thumb". This is the injury of the ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) of the thumb. If that is the injury then you should ideally have yourself examined by a doctor to assess the degree of the injury of the ligament. Because a complete tear will require surgery. But from your description, the chances are remote as you have regained movements and the pain is also settling. The main issue with the UCL injury is lack of or weakness in the pinch grip between the thumb and the index finger which can be quite troublesome for people who do heavy work with their hands. Revert back to an orthopaedician online for further follow up -->