Scaphoid Fracture: Symptoms, Diagnosis and Treatment

Scaphoid Fracture: Symptoms, Diagnosis and Treatment

The scaphoid fracture is one of the most common wrist injuries, often caused by falls or sports trauma. Although frequent, it is also one of the hardest fractures to recognise, because it can present with mild symptoms and, in the first hours, does not always show up on an X-ray.

What is the scaphoid?

The scaphoid is a small bone at the base of the thumb, essential for wrist stability. Because of its poor blood supply, a scaphoid fracture can heal slowly and requires careful, specialist treatment.

Symptoms of a scaphoid fracture

• pain on the radial side of the wrist (thumb side)
• pain in the anatomical snuffbox
• swelling
• discomfort when gripping
• pain with twisting movements
• reduced strength

Why may it not show on X-ray?

A scaphoid fracture may not be visible on the first X-rays. For this reason, if pain persists, more detailed exams such as a CT scan or MRI are needed.

Useful exams

• X-ray
• CT scan
• MRI

Who is most at risk?

• young people and athletes
• falls onto an outstretched hand
• intense manual activity

Conservative treatment

Conservative treatment is the first choice when the fracture is undisplaced and the patient is young. It involves:

• immobilisation with a cast or splint
• X-ray or CT follow-ups
• physiotherapy after the immobilisation is removed

When is surgery needed?

Surgery is considered when the fracture is displaced, the bone is unstable or it is not healing correctly.

The role of physiotherapy

Physiotherapy is essential to:

• recover wrist mobility
• strengthen the stabilising muscles
• improve hand function
• gradually return to daily and sports activities

The importance of a specialist physiotherapist

Scaphoid rehabilitation is delicate. It is important to rely on a physiotherapist specialised in hand and wrist rehabilitation, who can guide recovery safely and prevent complications.

What happens if it is not treated correctly?

• chronic pain
• non-union
• wrist osteoarthritis
• instability

💡 A scaphoid fracture requires accurate diagnosis, appropriate exams and expert rehabilitation management for a full recovery.