Scaphoid fractures are most commonly because of a fall onto an outstretched hand.
This throw in of break often causes pain and swelling on the thumb side of the wrist.
Cast immobilization is typically recommended for this pop in of fracture, but this can vary.
Jonathan Cluett, M.D.
The force of the injury leads to damage to the scaphoid bone.
An MRI can also be used to diagnose this injury without having to wait to repeat an X-ray.
Treatment
When treating a scaphoid fracture, your healthcare provider will set specific goals.
The cast must extend over your thumb to limit the mobility of your thumb.
How high up to extend the cast (above or below the elbow) depends on healthcare provider preference.
Healing of a scaphoid fracture often takes 10 to 12 weeks.
The surgery typically involves using a single screw to hold the bone together in the proper position.
Many athletes or manual laborers choose to have surgery to allow a faster recovery.
Recovery
After surgery, you will also need to wear a cast.
As you heal, you’ll need to restrict your activity.
This stops the delivery of necessary oxygen and nutrients to the bone cells, impeding healing.
Other factors that can contribute to non-union include smoking, certain medications, and infection.
These injuries can be complex.
Long-term pain and tissue death (avascular necrosis) can occur.
Lengthy treatment is often required to get the bone to heal.
A bone graft is often used topromote healing at the fracturesite.
Without proper treatment,wrist arthritisis likely to develop later in life.
Surgical treatment has risks associated with it, but may provide more predictable healing.
Frequently Asked Questions
The waist is the middle section of the scaphoid bone.
Carpal tunnel syndrome is usually the result of multiple factors.
This can include an overactive pituitary gland, rheumatoid arthritis, wrist swelling from an injury, and more.
In many cases of carpal tunnel syndrome, it is difficult to pinpoint a single cause of it.
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American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons: OrthoInfo.Scaphoid Fracture of the Wrist.
Nationwide Children’s Hospital.Scaphoid Fractures.
National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke.Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Fact Sheet.
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