The Scaphoid is one of the small carpal bones in the wrist. Scaphoid fractures are most commonly caused by a fall on an outstretched hand.

Symptoms generally include pain at the base of the thumb which is worse with use of the hand, tenderness and swelling. X-ray is required to confirm diagnosis; however sometimes scaphoid fractures can go unnoticed and even an x-ray may not reveal a fracture. Careful assessment and referral on for more investigations is sometimes needed if a scaphoid fracture is suspected.

The scaphoid is a slow healing bone due to it’s poor blood supply. Some scaphoid fractures can be treated in a custom made thermoplastic splint which protects the bone whilst it is healing. Some fractures require surgery to ensure healing and correct alignment.

Scaphoid Fractures

The Scaphoid is one of the small carpal bones in the wrist. Scaphoid fractures are most commonly caused by a fall on an outstretched hand.

Symptoms generally include pain at the base of the thumb which is worse with use of the hand, tenderness and swelling. X-ray is required to confirm diagnosis; however sometimes scaphoid fractures can go unnoticed and even an x-ray may not reveal a fracture. Careful assessment and referral on for more investigations is sometimes needed if a scaphoid fracture is suspected.

The scaphoid is a slow healing bone due to it’s poor blood supply. Some scaphoid fractures can be treated in a custom made thermoplastic splint which protects the bone whilst it is healing. Some fractures require surgery to ensure healing and correct alignment.