Fractured ScaphoidBy. Cy Lewis Rily Brooks

Fractured Scaphoid

By. Cy Lewis and Rily Brooks

What Is The InjuryThe scaphoid is one of the small

bones in the wrist. It is the wrist bone that is most likely to break. The scaphoid is located on the thumb side of the wrist, in the area where the wrist bends.It can most easily be identified when the thumb is held in a "hitch-hiking" position. The scaphoid is at the base of the hollow made by the thumb tendons. Pain or tenderness in this area can be a sign that the scaphoid is injured.

By. Cy Lewis and Rily Brooks

How Does It Occur

Fractures of the scaphoid occur most commonly from a fall on the outstretched hand. Usually it hurts at first, but the pain may improve quickly, over the course of days or weeks. Bruising is rare, and there is usually no visible deformity and only minimal swelling. Since there is no deformity, many people with this injury mistakenly assume that they have just sprained their wrist, leading to a delay in seeking evaluation. It is common for people who have fractured this bone to not become aware of it until months or years after the event.

What is the treatmentIf a scaphoid fracture

is displaced, surgery may be advised. A small screw or a special pin is inserted into the scaphoid bone to hold the bone fragments together in the correct position. This can often be done via a small cut in your skin.

Recovery Time

It takes 9-13 weeks to recover from this injury

Rehabilitation

Gently bend your wrist forward. Hold for five seconds. Do two sets of fifteen. For extension gently bend your wrist backwards. Hold this position for five seconds. Do two sets of fifteen. Gently move your wrist from side to side (handshake motions) Hold for five seconds in each direction. Do two sets of fifteen. Wrist flexing stretch. Stand with the back on the table palms facing up fingers pointing towards your body elbows straight. Lean away from the table. For fifteen to thirty seconds. Repeat three times.