What is a scaphoid fracture?
The scaphoid is one of the eight carpal bones that make up the wrist. It is the most usually fractured (broken) carpal bone, found below the thumb. Because some parts of the scaphoid have limited blood supply, they may take longer to mend.
If you’ve sustained this kind of fracture, you may have pain when you move your wrist or thumb. If this sounds familiar, call Cascade Hand & Orthopedic Rehab learn about how hand therapy could help you make a full recovery!
What causes a scaphoid fracture?
A scaphoid fracture is usually caused by a fall on an outstretched hand with the wrist bent backward. It can also be caused by a direct hit to the wrist, such as in a car accident or contact sport. It is most common in active young adults.
What are the symptoms of a scaphoid fracture?
As previously mentioned, the most common symptoms of scaphoid fractures include pain with movement of the wrist or thumb. A person may experience difficulty pinching or holding items.
The thumb side of the wrist may be tender to pressure. There may also be swelling and bruising at the base of the thumb and wrist. Sometimes there is only mild pain, and the injury is mistaken for a wrist sprain.
It’s a good idea (even if you think you’ve successfully diagnosed yourself!) to see a medical professional for a true diagnosis if you’re experiencing pain in your hand, wrist, or thumb.
How are scaphoid fractures treated by a doctor?
An X-ray of the wrist will be obtained if a scaphoid fracture is suspected; however, the fracture may not be seen right away. If an X-ray reveals nothing, the wrist may be put in a cast or orthosis and re-examined in two to three weeks.
A magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan can also be utilized to make a diagnosis. Some fractures necessitate an immobilization period of eight weeks to six months in a cast or orthosis.
The cast will cover the wrist, thumb, and possibly the elbow as well. The fingers are unrestricted in their movement. Fractures that are more serious require surgery to realign and stabilize the bone fragments.
What can a hand therapist do for me?
Our hand therapist in Fort Myers, FL may fabricate a custom orthosis to immobilize the wrist and thumb to protect the healing bone. They will also educate the patient on how to reduce pain and swelling in the hand. When the cast is removed, therapy will focus on regaining motion, strength and functional use of the wrist and hand.
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