Plaster for a scaphoid fracture: what to know

The scaphoid sits on the thumb side of the wrist and helps transmit force between the forearm and hand. A cast may include the thumb, wrist, and forearm to reduce movements that could disturb the fracture. Pain in the hollow at the thumb side of the wrist can occur with this injury, but symptoms alone cannot show how the bone is healing.

Some scaphoid fractures are treated with casting, while others need a different plan because of displacement, location, delayed healing, or an uncertain diagnosis. Imaging and clinical review guide that decision. A cast can feel restrictive, and the fingers that remain free should be checked regularly.

Keep the cast dry and do not use the hand for lifting, pushing, gripping, or sports unless the treating team approves it. Raise the arm for swelling and move the free fingers gently. Never insert a tool or cream under the cast. Attend every follow-up even if the wrist feels better, because the scaphoid may need continued protection before normal loading is safe.

Seek prompt medical advice if pain is increasing, the cast is cracked, wet, loose, or tight, or the thumb and fingers become numb, pale, blue, cold, or difficult to move. New swelling, skin pressure, drainage, fever, or a bad smell also needs assessment. Persistent wrist pain after the cast is removed should be reported before you return to demanding activity.

Ask whether the cast must include the thumb, what imaging will monitor healing, which activities are allowed, and what should happen if pain continues. Ask when hand therapy may begin and when fixation surgery would be considered if the fracture does not remain stable.