Scaphoid fractures

What is a scaphoid fracture?

A scaphoid fracture is a break in one of the small bones in the hand. This type of fracture occurs after a fall onto an outstretched hand. Symptoms of a scaphoid fracture typically include pain and tenderness in the area just below the base of the thumb.

Scaphoid fractures sometimes, but not always, show up straight away on x ray. You might have a clinic appointment made 10-14 days after you were first seen in A&E to re x-ray your hand and wrist

Whilst your injury is healing your hand and wrist might be placed in a removable splint or cast.

Swelling and bruising at the injury site is normal. Simple, over the counter pain killers and applying ice to the area will help to reduce swelling and pain. Ice should be applied, wrapped in a tea towel, for 20 minutes three to four times a day.

You should:

• keep the splint on at all times – if you have been given one – even at night. it can be removed for hygiene reasons.
• keep your fingers moving while wearing the splint or cast to prevent your fingers becoming stiff.
• elevate your hand in the days following your injury to help reduce swelling.
• remove any rings or jewellery on the affected hand.

You should not

• stick anything down the cast or get the cast wet, if you have one.
• take part in any physical contact sports, as guided by your consultant at your clinic appointment.
• miss your clinic appointment if this has been requested.

Please remember:

Please contact your GP if your condition is not improving, or if your pain relief is not adequate.

If your condition is worsening please contact the Multi professional fracture clinic, call call 01223 348299 or call 01223 257095.

For more information please visit Fracture Info (opens in a new tab)

For any concerns on wounds email the fracture information team.

Please include your hospital number and any photos of your wounds that you would like to be reviewed.