What is a fracture?
Fractures of the bones in the hand are common injuries. Localised pain, swelling or bruising can indicate that a bone is broken. Also, an unnatural position of the bone may indicate the presence a fracture.
Many fractures can be treated with immobilisation using a cast or splint for about four weeks. Some fractures need to be repaired with an operation. Depending on the bone and the fracture, surgery can involve placing pins through the skin to hold the bone (fracture pinning) or an open operation using metal screws and plates (open reduction and fixation).
A stable repair of the bone allows for gentle movement of the hand within a week after surgery. A removable splint is made by a hand therapist to protect the bone in between exercises.
Scaphoid fracture is the most common fracture of the wrist. It concerns a fracture of the carpal bone that is located on the thumb side of the wrist.
