Scaphoid Fractures

A scaphoid fracture is a fracture to the scaphoid, a small bone in the wrist.

A fracture to the scaphoid is commonly caused by landing on an outstretched hand (the face of the palm) after a fall.

The symptoms of a scaphoid fracture depend on the severity of the injury. These include:

• Swelling
• Redness
• Warmth
• Pain Below The Base Of The Thumb
• Reduced Movement Of The Wrist
• Deformity Of The Wrist

• Your doctor will ask several questions about the symptoms (cause, location, intensity, aggravators/relievers).
• A few simple tests can be done to see the movement of the wrist and location of pain.

While the above steps can quickly diagnose a scaphoid fracture, an x-ray, CT or MRI scan may be performed to confirm the diagnosis.

Wrist treatment depends on the severity and type of the fracture. These can include:

• Immobilising the wrist with a brace, splint or cast
• Taking anti-inflammatory medication
• Resting the injured wrist as much as possible
• Applying ice immediately after the injury to reduce inflammation
• Physiotherapy treatment to relieve symptoms, increase strength and avoid stiffness.
• Surgery (in severe cases)

Fractures are conditions that require immediate treatment to prevent further damage to the surrounding tissues and potential complications. The recovery period for a scaphoid fracture can be up to six months.