Scaphoid Fractures
Scaphoid Fracture (Wrist Fracture Near the Thumb)
A Common Wrist Injury That’s Easy to Miss
Pain on the thumb side of your wrist after a fall? You may have a scaphoid fracture. The scaphoid is one of the small wrist bones that connect the hand to the forearm.
Because this bone has a unique blood supply, scaphoid fractures can be tricky to diagnose and even harder to heal if not treated promptly.
Dr. Chris English, a board-certified orthopedic hand and upper-extremity surgeon in Layton, Utah, specializes in diagnosing and treating scaphoid fractures, helping patients avoid long-term stiffness, arthritis, or nonunion.
What Is a Scaphoid Fracture?
The scaphoid is a small, peanut-shaped bone located on the thumb side of the wrist, just below the base of the thumb. It plays a critical role in wrist motion and stability.
A scaphoid fracture usually happens when you fall onto an outstretched hand, causing pain deep in the wrist near the base of the thumb.
These fractures can range from small, hairline cracks to complete breaks that separate the bone into two pieces.
Because the scaphoid has limited blood flow, especially to its upper portion, a delay in diagnosis or improper treatment can lead to nonunion (failure to heal) or avascular necrosis (bone death).
Common Symptoms
Pain on the thumb side of the wrist (in the “anatomic snuffbox”)
Tenderness when pressing just below the base of the thumb
Swelling or bruising after a fall or sports injury
Pain when gripping, lifting, or pushing up from a chair
Reduced wrist motion or stiffness
Even if initial X-rays look normal, continued pain after a fall may still indicate a scaphoid fracture. it’s one of the most commonly missed fractures in the wrist.
How It’s Diagnosed
Dr. English begins with a detailed history and wrist examination and imaging.
X-rays help identify the location and pattern of the fracture.
If early X-rays appear normal but pain persists, an MRI or CT scan is often ordered to confirm the diagnosis.
Accurate diagnosis is crucial — untreated scaphoid fractures can lead to chronic wrist pain, loss of motion, or arthritis years later.
Treatment Options
Non-Surgical Management
For non-displaced fractures (where the bone pieces remain aligned):
A thumb spica cast or brace is worn for 6–10 weeks.
Follow-up X-rays or CT scans monitor healing progress.
Early motion is started once the bone shows solid healing.
Surgical Treatment
If the fracture is displaced, unstable, or shows signs of poor healing, Dr. English may recommend surgery.
Performed as an outpatient procedure under regional or general anesthesia
The bone is stabilized with a headless compression screw or small plate
In cases of nonunion, a bone graft (often from the radius) may be used to promote healing
Therapy begins once the fracture shows stability on imaging
Modern techniques allow small incisions, faster healing, and earlier return to motion compared to older casting methods.
Recovery Timeline
Casting or immobilization: 6–10 weeks for minor fractures
After surgery: light motion often starts within 2–4 weeks, strengthening by 8–12 weeks
Full recovery can take 3–6 months, depending on bone healing and therapy progress
Dr. English works closely with certified hand therapists to create a personalized rehab plan that restores motion, strength, and function.
Complications if Left Untreated
A missed or untreated scaphoid fracture can lead to:
Nonunion: the bone fails to heal
Avascular necrosis: poor blood supply causes part of the bone to die
Arthritis: long-term stiffness, pain, and decreased wrist motion
These complications can often be prevented with early diagnosis and proper treatment.
When to See a Hand Specialist
If you’ve fallen on your wrist and have persistent pain near the thumb, don’t ignore it — even if it feels like a mild sprain.
Prompt evaluation can prevent long-term wrist problems and ensure full recovery.
Dr. Chris English treats scaphoid fractures and other wrist injuries across Layton, Ogden, Bountiful, and the Salt Lake area.
Frequently Asked Questions (faqs)
Can a scaphoid fracture heal on its own?
Small, stable fractures may heal with casting, but displaced or unrecognized fractures often require surgery to avoid long-term issues.
Why are scaphoid fractures so slow to heal?
The scaphoid’s limited blood supply means the bone receives less oxygen and nutrients, which slows healing and increases the risk of nonunion.
Will I regain full wrist motion?
With early diagnosis and proper treatment, most patients regain near-normal motion and function.