What are the treatment options for scaphoid fracture?

The scaphoid is a small wrist bone that helps connect wrist movement. Some fractures can be held still while the bone heals, but parts of the scaphoid have a limited blood supply. X-rays and sometimes other scans help show the fracture location, alignment and healing. Tenderness in the hollow at the thumb side of the wrist deserves assessment even when an early image is unclear.

Fracture Casting keeps the wrist and thumb sufficiently still so the bone ends are not repeatedly stressed. Wear the cast or splint as directed, keep it protected, and attend repeat imaging. Fracture Fixation Surgery uses a screw or another stabilising method to hold selected fractures in alignment. Do not lift, grip strongly or return to sport until your treating team confirms that movement is safe. Finger motion may be encouraged, while wrist exercises usually wait for clearance.

Seek urgent help if fingers become blue, cold, numb or increasingly swollen, or if pain is severe despite elevation and prescribed relief. Contact the fracture team for a wet, cracked or loose cast, worsening pressure, fever, drainage or new loss of movement. Return promptly after a new injury to the wrist.

Ask where the fracture sits, how long immobilisation may be needed, which scan will check healing, when wrist motion can begin, and why surgery is or is not recommended.