Scaphoid fractures predominantly occur in young, active individuals, most commonly resulting from a fall on the outstretched hand. The scaphoid bone is the most important carpal bone in your wrist. Scaphoid fractures account for 79% of carpal fractures making it the most commonly injured bone in young adults.
Diagnosis and assessment of Scaphoid Fracture
Early diagnosis of scaphoid fractures is crucial and the hand therapists at Action Rehab are experienced in the assessment of these injuries. To establish appropriate treatment and to minimise complications it is important to see a hand therapist as soon as possible.
Plain X-rays are considered to be the most effective form of initial investigation and we can refer you for these if you have not had them done already. Where a Scaphoid fracture is not seen on X-ray it could be a radius fracture, other carpal fractures or soft tissue injury such as scapho-lunate ligament.
Treatment solutions for scaphoid fracture
A stable Scaphoid fracture without displacement can be treated without surgery. It is important to consult a hand therapist as soon as you suspect a Scaphoid fracture or a fall on the outstretched hand as they can best assess the stability of the fracture and the need for immobilisation or surgery.
Some Scaphoid fractures do not require plaster and stable fractures may only require a wrist brace with no thumb immobilisation and no plaster required. There are cases where splinting as opposed to plaster casting can improve the healing of the Scaphoid fracture.
Action Rehab can advise you on how to manage your scaphoid fracture injury
If you fall on an outstretched hand and you have wrist pain around the base of the thumb you may have a Scaphoid fracture. You should seek assistance from a Hand Therapist as soon as possible to help you understand the injury and treat it appropriately.
Therapists at Action Rehab are experienced in the treatment of Scaphoid fractures and can offer you the best advice if you suspect you may have this injury.
References
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The Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery, 73( 5), 828-832. - Doornberg, M., Geert, A., Buijze, S., Ham, J., Ring, D., Bhandari, M., & Poolman, R. (2011). Nonoperative Treatment for Acute Scaphoid Fractures: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials.
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