How to minimize UCL injuries for professional skiers

Sammanfattning: This report is a Master thesis in product development taking on the problem called a "skier´s thumb". A number of different strategies have been proposed to address this issue over the years, however, without much success. One of the most common injuries for professional skiers or ski enthusiast is damaging the Ulnar Collateral Ligament (UCL), or injuring one of the thumbs interphalangeal joint. These types of injuries are usually undetected: moreover, if not treated by professionals they could cause chronic damages to the thumb. To investigate the issue, extensive research was conducted to understand the medical issues that arise when injuries occur. Our goal is to create a solution where the thumb does not move more than 35° angulation, or has a difference of 15° from contralateral thumb. Presented in the report is a selection of results from research and interviews. Additionally, through various ideation and rapid prototyping techniques different ideas were tested to create a feasible product that minimizes injuries on the thumb. Later on, testing of all prototypes was performed to provide a functional concept that could decrease injuries of the thumb. The result of this project is a UCL protecting gear, integrated inside the glove.