About Scaphoid Fractures and Injuries

The scaphoid is one of the eight small bones that make up the wrist and is the most common bone to be fractured. This injury is most often caused as a result of a fall when someone attempts to brace themselves from a fall with an outstretched hand.

Initial symptoms of a fractured scaphoid include wrist pain and swelling. Often the initial swelling subsides, but the wrist continues to have pain. This is particularly true when applying force through an extended hand, as in a pushup. This injury is commonly misdiagnosed as a wrist sprain.

The scaphoid bone has several unique qualities that make healing difficult and the repercussions of not healing drastic. A scaphoid fracture rarely heals without specialized care. A chronic scaphoid fracture may result in degeneration of the bone itself and may cause arthritis of the wrist.

Typically, treatment includes immobilization in a cast, or surgery. The knowledge and care for scaphoid fractures has had many innovations over the past 10 years. At Hand & Wrist Surgery of NJ, Dr. Ugras will apply the latest knowledge of diagnostics and treatment to give you the best chance of pain-free return to unrestricted activity.

If you are concerned regarding this problem, we can perform a detailed examination, ultrasound, x-rays and other tests as needed and discuss the options with you to find the option that best suits your needs. Contact us today.