At Palms Physiotherapy & Allied Health, we specialise in the rehabilitation of scaphoid fractures, one of the most common types of wrist fractures. This injury often occurs as a result of a fall onto an outstretched hand or direct trauma. 

Our expert team of physiotherapists, occupational therapists, and exercise physiologists provides personalized care to help you recover fully, restore wrist function, and get back to your daily activities with confidence.

Scaphoid Fractures: Treatment and Rehabilitation at Palms Physiotherapy & Allied Health

What is a Scaphoid Fracture?

A scaphoid fracture refers to a break in the scaphoid bone, one of the small, boat-shaped bones in the wrist located on the thumb side. This bone plays a crucial role in wrist stability and motion, making scaphoid fractures particularly important to address correctly.

Scaphoid fractures are often caused by a fall on an outstretched hand (FOOSH), but can also occur due to other types of trauma or sports-related injuries. Scaphoid fractures are known for their potential complications, including poor healing or non-union due to the bone’s limited blood supply.

Symptoms of a Scaphoid Fracture

The symptoms of a scaphoid fracture can range from mild to severe and typically include:

1. Pain in the Wrist

• Pain is usually felt on the thumb side of the wrist, near the base of the thumb.

• The pain may be sharp and may worsen with movement or weight-bearing activities.

2. Swelling and Bruising

• Swelling in the wrist may occur, especially around the base of the thumb.

• Bruising may develop, although it is not always visible immediately after the injury.

3. Limited Range of Motion

• Difficulty moving the wrist, particularly with gripping, twisting, or weight-bearing actions.

• Limited motion in the thumb and wrist joint, making it hard to perform daily tasks such as opening doors or lifting objects.

4. Tenderness

• Tenderness and sensitivity to touch at the anatomical snuffbox, a depression on the thumb side of the wrist, which is a common indicator of a scaphoid fracture.

Causes of Scaphoid Fractures

A scaphoid fracture can occur due to various traumatic incidents, including:

1. Fall on an Outstretched Hand (FOOSH)

• The most common cause of scaphoid fractures is a fall where the wrist is extended to catch the body. The force of the impact can lead to a break in the scaphoid bone.

2. Sports Injuries

• Contact sports such as football, rugby, or skateboarding are frequent causes of scaphoid fractures, particularly when a player falls or experiences direct trauma to the wrist.

3. Motor Vehicle Accidents

• A high-impact collision or accident can lead to direct trauma to the wrist, resulting in a scaphoid fracture.

4. Osteoporosis

• People with weakened bones, such as those with osteoporosis, are at higher risk for scaphoid fractures even from relatively low-impact injuries.

Diagnosing a Scaphoid Fracture

If you suspect a scaphoid fracture, an assessment by a healthcare professional is essential. Diagnostic tools include:

1. Physical Examination

• Your physiotherapist or doctor will examine the wrist for pain, swelling, tenderness, and limited range of motion. Special attention will be given to the anatomical snuffbox, where scaphoid fractures are most often tender.

2. X-rays

• X-rays are the first step in confirming a scaphoid fracture, but they may not always show the fracture immediately due to the scaphoid bone’s location and structure. It may take several days or weeks before a fracture is visible on an X-ray.

3. MRI or CT Scan

• If the fracture is not visible on X-rays or if there is a suspicion of a non-displaced fracture, an MRI or CT scan may be used to get a clearer image and better diagnose the extent of the injury.

Treatment for Scaphoid Fractures at Palms Physiotherapy & Allied Health

Treatment for a scaphoid fracture depends on the severity of the break and whether the fracture is displaced or non-displaced. At Palms Physiotherapy & Allied Health, we offer personalized treatment plans designed to promote healing, reduce pain, and restore wrist function.

1. Non-Surgical Treatment (For Non-Displaced Fractures)

• Immobilization: Most scaphoid fractures that are non-displaced can be treated with a cast or a splint. The wrist is typically immobilized for 6-12 weeks, depending on the fracture's severity.

• Pain Management: Pain relievers such as NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) may be recommended to manage pain and reduce inflammation.

• Rest and Ice: Resting the wrist and applying ice can help to manage swelling and discomfort.

2. Surgical Treatment (For Displaced or Complex Fractures)

• If the fracture is displaced (the two ends of the bone are separated), surgery may be required to reposition the bones and hold them in place with screws, pins, or plates.

• Open Reduction and Internal Fixation (ORIF) may be recommended for more complicated fractures that do not heal well with immobilization.

3. Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation

• Restoring Wrist Motion: After the cast or immobilization period, physiotherapy is essential to restore wrist motion and strength.

• Strengthening: Specific exercises designed to strengthen the wrist, forearm, and hand will be incorporated to help you regain full functionality.

• Manual Therapy: Our physiotherapists may use hands-on techniques to alleviate pain, reduce swelling, and improve mobility.

• Grip Training: Grip strength exercises will be included to improve your ability to handle daily tasks.

4. Occupational Therapy

• If necessary, our occupational therapists will provide wrist splints or braces to support the wrist during rehabilitation.

• They can also recommend adaptive techniques for daily activities to reduce strain on the injured wrist while it heals.

Recovery and Rehabilitation After a Scaphoid Fracture

Recovery time depends on the severity of the fracture. For non-displaced fractures, recovery generally takes 6 to 12 weeks for the bone to heal properly. However, for more severe fractures or those requiring surgery, recovery can take 3 to 6 months.

Post-Treatment Rehabilitation

• Once the cast is removed or surgery is completed, a gradual rehabilitation program will be initiated to restore full function.

• Our physiotherapists will guide you through exercises to increase mobility, reduce stiffness, and regain strength, which are essential for returning to everyday activities without pain or limitations.

Book Your Appointment Today

If you’ve suffered a scaphoid fracture or suspect you may have one, Palms Physiotherapy & Allied Health can help with treatment and rehabilitation. Contact us to schedule an appointment and start your journey toward recovery:

Australian Resources for Scaphoid Fractures

For more detailed information on scaphoid fractures, we recommend the following Australian resources:

• Better Health Channel – Fractures of the Wrist
  https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/conditionsandtreatments/wrist-fractures

• Healthdirect Australia – Fractures and Breaks
  https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/fractures-and-breaks

• Australian Physiotherapy Association – Wrist Injuries
  https://australian.physio/

Important disclaimer: This webpage contains general information only and is not intended to be relied upon as personal clinical advice. While we aim to keep information accurate and up to date, it may not reflect the most current research or your individual circumstances. Palms Physiotherapy & Allied Health does not accept liability for decisions made based on this information without an individualised assessment by an appropriately qualified health professional. If you have concerns, please contact us to book an assessment or speak with your GP/medical team.