What is a Scaphoid Fracture?
Description:
A scaphoid fracture involves a break or crack in the scaphoid bone, one of the small bones in the wrist. This type of fracture is common and often results from a fall onto an outstretched hand. A comprehensive understanding of scaphoid fractures, including their causes, symptoms, and management, is essential for effective treatment and recovery.
Causes and Mechanisms:
Scaphoid fractures can occur due to:
Falls: A fall onto an outstretched hand is a common cause, transmitting force to the wrist.
Sports Injuries: High-impact sports or activities that involve a risk of wrist injuries may lead to scaphoid fractures.
Risk Factors:
Certain factors may increase the risk of sustaining a scaphoid fracture, including:
Participation in Sports: Engaging in activities with a risk of hand and wrist injuries.
Age: Young adults are more prone to scaphoid fractures.
Signs and Symptoms:
Common signs and symptoms of a scaphoid fracture include:
Pain: Immediate pain at the base of the thumb and in the wrist.
Swelling: Swelling and tenderness around the fractured area.
Limited Range of Motion: Difficulty moving the thumb and wrist due to pain.
Bruising: Discoloration of the skin around the wrist.
Management Strategies:
Early Assessment:
A thorough assessment by a physiotherapist is crucial to evaluate the extent of the scaphoid fracture, assess surrounding structures, and identify individualized treatment needs.
Immobilization Support:
Physiotherapists work with patients to adapt to casts, splints, or braces, ensuring they provide optimal support without hindering other aspects of daily life.
Pain Management:
Modalities such as heat or cold therapy, gentle massage, and specific exercises help manage pain and discomfort associated with the fracture.
Range of Motion Exercises:
Gradual introduction of passive and active range of motion exercises helps restore flexibility in the wrist joint. This is initiated as early as possible, considering the stage of healing.
Strengthening Exercises:
Specific exercises targeting the muscles around the wrist and hand are introduced to rebuild strength gradually. Progressive resistance exercises ensure a safe and effective recovery.
Functional Activities:
Physiotherapists incorporate functional activities into rehabilitation, mimicking daily tasks to enhance coordination and promote the integration of the wrist into regular movements.
Joint Mobilization Techniques:
Manual therapy techniques, including joint mobilizations, may be applied to improve joint mobility and reduce stiffness.