Ace Physiotherapy and Sports in Singapore
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+65 81535374 -
ACE PHYSIO SPORTS
East gate Building, 46 East Coast Road
#08-03 Singapore 428766 -
Opening Hours
Mon to Fri: 08:00am - 8:00pm -
Opening Hours
Sat: 08:00am - 4:00pm
Sunday (By prior appointment)
Fracture of the Scaphoid
What is a fracture of the scaphoid?
A scaphoid fracture is a break in the small bone located at the base of the thumb, just above the wrist joint. Physiotherapy plays a vital role in the rehabilitation process following a scaphoid fracture, helping to restore strength, flexibility, and function to the hand and wrist.
What causes a fractured scaphoid?
A scaphoid fracture typically occurs as a result of a fall onto an outstretched hand, causing the bone to absorb the impact.
What are the symptoms of a fractured scaphoid?
A scaphoid fracture typically causes pain on the thumb side of the wrist joint. Unlike many other fractures, the pain may not be intense, and the injury can often feel more like a mild wrist sprain. In addition, scaphoid fractures often do not result in visible deformity or significant swelling, which can make the injury easy to overlook. As a result, many people do not realise they have fractured their scaphoid. Other possible symptoms include:
- reduced range of movement
- swelling/inflamation
- stiffness
- weakness
- numbness
What should I do if I think I have fractured my scaphoid?
A scaphoid fracture is a serious injury that requires immediate medical attention. If you suspect you have fractured your scaphoid, you should go to the nearest accident and emergency department as soon as possible. In the meantime, supporting your arm in a sling may help reduce discomfort. To manage pain and minimise swelling, apply ice to the wrist — ideally using crushed ice wrapped in a damp towel or cloth — for up to 20 minutes at a time.
An X-ray or CT scan may be necessary to assess the scaphoid bone and confirm the fracture. These imaging results will help determine the severity of the injury, provide an estimate of the healing time, and guide the appropriate treatment plan. Treatment may involve immobilising the wrist with a cast and supporting the arm with a sling.
Fractured scaphoid physiotherapy
If you have fractured your scaphoid, you will likely need to wear a splint or cast. While this immobilisation supports healing, it can also lead to joint stiffness and muscle weakness. Although movement and strength typically return with regular use of the wrist, the recovery process can be slow and may not always be complete, potentially increasing your risk of future injuries.
Physiotherapy is very important to facilitate the return of your joint range of movement and muscle strength. Treatment options include:
- Joint mobilisation to improve flexibility and reduce stiffness.
- Strengthening exercises to rebuild muscle support around the wrist and hand.
- Stretching exercises to restore normal movement and prevent soft tissue tightness.
- Manual therapy techniques such as massage to reduce muscle tension and promote circulation.
- Electrotherapy to manage pain and assist healing in some cases.
- Activity modification advice to prevent reinjury during recovery.
- Functional retraining to help you return to daily tasks or sport-specific activities safely.
Are there any long-term effects of scaphoid fractures?
Most fractures of the scaphoid heal without complication within a few weeks. However, some cases can result in longer-term effects—most commonly when the broken fragments of the scaphoid fail to unite (a condition known as non-union). This is a serious complication that can significantly prolong recovery and may require surgery or alternative treatments to stimulate bone healing. Non-union is more likely in individuals who do not seek timely or appropriate assessment and treatment.
To arrange an appointment, please call +65 81535374 or visit acephysiosports.com.
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