Scaphoid Fracture
Wrist/Hand > Scaphoid Fracture
The scaphoid is a bone in your wrist that is located at the base of your thumb. Fracturing this bone can be very problematic, as it has relatively poor blood flow and is more likely to have issues healing than other wrist fractures.
Mechanism of Injury: FOOSH (falling on outstretched hand)
Contributing Factors: Poor wrist mobility.
Signs/Symptoms: Pain at base of thumb. Restricted wrist range of motion. Difficulty grasping or bearing weight on hand. Swelling, bruising.
At Home Tests: Range of Motion (see video). Press anatomical snuffbox (see video)
At Home Treatment: None
When to Seek Help: If you have pain in your anatomical snuffbox, or wrist pain after a fall that does not go away within a few days, head to an orthopedic surgeon’s office. You may not see a fracture on an early x-ray, but follow-up radiographs may reveal it as it begins to heal.
Treatment at Inspired Athletx: A scaphoid fracture will require a period of immobilization or surgery. Once you are out of your cast, regaining wrist, hand, and elbow mobility through manual therapy and mobility exercises is key. Strengthening will go beyond the wrist and hand to the shoulder, core, and hips. If poor balance contributed to your fall, your physical therapist will work to address that through proprioceptive exercises, fall training, and home modifications. Click here to schedule a physical therapy evaluation with us.
Disclaimer: The content contained in this section of the website is intended for informational purposes only. It does not constitute medical advice and is not intended to function as a substitute for a professional diagnosis or treatment from a licensed healthcare provider.
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