Physical examination: tenderness in the anatomical snuffbox is a strong sign
X-rays: may confirm the fracture, but early or small breaks sometimes aren’t visible
How long does a scaphoid fracture take to heal?
Everything You Need to Know About a Scaphoid Fracture
What is a Scaphoid Fracture?
A scaphoid fracture is a break in the scaphoid bone, one of the small bones in the wrist located near the base of the thumb. It plays a key role in wrist stability and movement. Because it has limited blood supply, it can be slow to heal, and if left untreated, may lead to long-term complications like non-union or arthritis.
An analogy…
Imagine the scaphoid like a tiny bridge between two parts of the wrist. If the bridge cracks, it affects the stability of the whole structure, and because the blood supply to that bridge is weak, it’s harder for the body to repair it quickly.
What are other names that a scaphoid fracture can be called?
Fractured of the Scaphoid
What causes a scaphoid fracture?
The scaphoid is commonly fractured when someone falls on an outstretched hand, and the wrist bends backward under pressure. The force compresses the scaphoid between other wrist bones, causing it to crack. It can be a clean break or just a small hairline fracture, and sometimes it doesn’t show on the first X-ray.
What are the signs and symptoms of a scaphoid fracture?
- Pain and tenderness on the thumb side of the wrist
- Swelling around the base of the thumb
- Pain with gripping, lifting, or pushing through the wrist
- Limited wrist movement, especially when bending or twisting
- Tenderness in the anatomical snuffbox (a small dip at the base of the thumb)
- In some cases, the pain may be mild and easily mistaken for a sprain
What tests are used to diagnose a scaphoid fracture?
Fractures near the thumb (distal pole) may heal in 6 to 8 weeks with a cast or splint. Fractures near the middle (waist) or closer to the forearm (proximal pole) may take 12 weeks or longer, and often require surgery. Full return to sport or heavy activity can take 3 to 6 months, depending on the case and the rehab plan.
How does a scaphoid fracture happen?
- Falling on an outstretched hand
- High-impact trauma, such as car or bike accidents
- Contact sports like football, rugby, or skateboarding
- Poor protective reactions during falls
What treatment can help a scaphoid fracture?
- Immobilisation in a cast or thumb splint for 6–12 weeks
- Regular imaging to check healing progress
- Pain management with ice and anti-inflammatories
- Once cleared, rehab exercises to restore wrist mobility and strength
What exercises or stretches can I do for a scaphoid fracture?
- Wrist range of motion exercises
- Thumb mobility and strengthening drills
- Forearm and grip strengthening with therapy putty or light weights
- Wrist stabilisation exercises
What products can help with a scaphoid fracture?
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