Scaphoid Fracture

On this page

• What has happened?
• What should I expect?
• What should I do?
• What should I not do?
• Will I be followed up?
• What if I have concerns/questions?

What has happened?

• You may have broken a small bone in the palm of your hand
• These types of breaks are often hard to see on x-ray initially and are placed into a cast until you can be seen in the orthopaedic clinic

What should I expect?

• Your hand may be swollen and sore, and you may notice some bruising develop on your fingers - this is normal
• You will be put into a cast in ED - this will stay on until you are seen by the orthopaedic team
• You will likely be in a cast for 8 weeks, occasionally longer
• If your injury was not treated with an operation, you will likely be able to return to sport and heavy physical labour after 12 weeks

What should I do?

• You may require simple pain relief (e.g. paracetamol and ibuprofen)
• Elevating the hand may also help with swelling and pain - you can do this by placing your hand on 1-2 pillows while sitting or sleeping
• Keep your cast dry by covering it with a plastic bag and securing it with tape before showering - a wet cast will get soggy and fall apart
• While in the cast, keep moving your fingers by bending and straightening them

What should I not do?

• Do not use your injured hand for lifting heavy objects
• Try to reduce or stop smoking as this may delay bone healing

Will I be followed up?

• Yes, a follow-up appointment in the Orthopaedic Clinic will be requested when you leave ED and you will be contacted regarding a date and time

What if I have concerns/questions?

• If your injury is not settling or you have other concerns, you should see your GP in the first instance - take your ACC form/number with you
• Please seek medical attention if you experience the following:
  • Increasing pain in the hand
  • Numbness or tingling in the hand
  • Your fingers go cold or turn blue white, in comparison to the other hand
  • You are unable to move your fingers