Scaphoid, Radius, Ulna or Capitate Fracture
A broken wrist can be a fracture of the radius, ulna, scaphoid or capitate bones. The usually mechanism of injury is a fall on an outstretched hand; if severe pain and swelling are evident an X-ray would be required to confirm or rule out a fracture.
Both the capitate and scaphoid carpal bones of the wrist have poor blood supply there are sometimes complications with the healing process. This can lead to ongoing pain in the wrist months after the initial injury. If the pain hasn’t resolved in 6 weeks it advisable to return to the consultant to check the healing progress, as surgery may be required.
Signs & symptoms:
- Severe pain at the wrist joint
- Reduced range of motion.
- Swelling in the area.
Physiotherapy will commence once the cast has been removed. The aim is to increase the strength of the muscles surrounding the wrist and forearm, and improve range of motion.
