A scaphoid fracture is when the scaphoid bone, a small wrist bone near the thumb, breaks.

They usually happen due to a fall onto an outstretched hand, with the wrist taking the impact.

Symptoms can include pain and tenderness on the thumb side of the wrist, swelling, and limited motion.

Xrays are used for diagnosis, but sometimes an MRI or CT scan is necessary if the fracture isn't seen on Xrays.

Fracture lines can be very small, making them hard to see on Xrays. Advanced imaging may be needed.

Fractures in the proximal part of the scaphoid often heal slower because they have less blood supply.

Treatment usually involves a cast or splint; surgery with screws or pins may be needed.

No, stable nondisplaced fractures may heal with just a cast, but displaced ones often require surgery.

Healing generally takes 6 to 12 weeks or more, depending on the fracture's location and severity.

The poor blood supply to the scaphoid slows down the healing process, especially in the proximal area.

Leaving it untreated can result in nonunion, causing ongoing pain and possibly arthritis.

Pain relief may be possible with overthecounter meds like ibuprofen or acetaminophen, as advised by a doctor.

Physical therapy is often suggested after healing to regain strength and motion in the wrist.

Normally, finger movement is possible but wrist and thumb movement may hurt or be difficult.

Full activity typically resumes after healing is confirmed, which can be several months, with doctor approval.

Complications may include nonunion, avascular necrosis (bone tissue death from low blood supply), and arthritis.

Healing without treatment is unlikely and may lead to a high risk of nonunion and other issues.

Avascular necrosis refers to bone tissue death from inadequate blood supply, a risk in scaphoid fractures.

Surgery typically involves inserting a screw or pins to stabilize and align the broken bone pieces.

A scaphoid cast immobilizes the wrist and thumb, often extending up the forearm for proper healing.

Light use may be okay; however, heavy activity stressing the wrist should be avoided until healed.

Signs include less pain, smaller swelling, and followup scans showing bone mending.

Don't lift heavy things, press hard, or do repetitive actions with the hurt wrist.

Yes, it is usual to have a cast postsurgery to protect the area and help it heal.

Ongoing pain and Xrays showing no healing suggest nonunion.

Yes, swelling is normal and should get less as the healing happens.

Yes, smoking can slow healing by reducing blood flow and other reasons.

Eating foods high in calcium and vitamin D can support healing.

Regular checkups every few weeks for Xrays and progress are standard.

A wrist splint keeps the wrist still to help with healing by stopping movements that could misalign bones.

Waterproof casts might be available depending on your treatment; check with your doctor.

This could cause longterm wrist pain, instability, and possibly arthritis.

Driving is usually not okay until you have enough function and are cleared by your doctor.

This can happen due to swelling but should be checked for possible nerve issues.

A bone graft involves moving bone tissue to help healing, needed in nonunion cases.

Keep it dry, don't stick things inside it, and follow the doctor's care guidelines.

Exercises may include wrist bending, straightening, and grip strengthening, supervised by a therapist.

It depends on your job; many adjust their tasks while healing.

Yes, reinjury can occur, especially with activities that risk falls or wrist impact.

Yes, it often happens in sports with falling or wrist injuries, like skiing or soccer.

Regular appointments for Xrays and checks to make sure healing is on track.

Raising the hand can help cut down swelling, particularly right after the injury.

A less invasive method to secure the scaphoid fracture by placing pins through the skin.

Wear protective gear in risky activities and use fall prevention methods.

Generally, swimming is not recommended until fully healed, though waterproof casts might allow some water contact.

Itching is common, but don't scratch with objects to avoid damaging the skin.

These imaging methods can show details that help find and assess the scaphoid fracture. can see fractures that Xrays can't show and check healing or issues.

A hairdryer set to cool can help; do not put anything into the cast.

Diabetes might make recovery harder, so you need to manage blood sugar and watch for problems closely.

Get help right away if you have sharp pain, more swelling, signs of infection, or can't use the area.