Scaphoid Injuries
Wrist pain after a fall that won't settle — what a scaphoid injury is, why it needs checking early, and how we help.
The scaphoid is one of the small bones in your wrist, and is the one that most often breaks — usually after a fall onto an outstretched hand.
It matters because the scaphoid has a fragile blood supply, so a break can be slow to heal — and if it's missed, it can lead to long-term wrist problems. Getting it assessed early gives the best chance of a straightforward recovery.
Symptoms of scaphoid injuries.
A scaphoid injury can feel like a simple sprain at first — which is exactly why it's worth checking.
Why it happens.
Most scaphoid injuries happen suddenly, through a specific fall or impact.
Don't wait for it to settle.
Early assessment helps you get the right treatment sooner. See a specialist if:
Assessed early by a hand & wrist consultant.
Mr Preetham Kodumuri, Consultant Hand & Wrist Surgeon, examines the wrist and checks for the classic signs of a scaphoid injury. Because early fractures can be hard to see, imaging such as an X-ray or MRI is arranged where needed to confirm the diagnosis. Early, accurate assessment is the key to avoiding longer-term problems.
How scaphoid injuries is treated.
Treatment depends on whether the bone is broken and whether it has moved — and we explain the plan clearly.
A full examination of the wrist with the consultant, and imaging arranged where needed to confirm whether the scaphoid is injured.
Many undisplaced scaphoid fractures heal well in a cast, with follow-up to check the bone is mending.
Where the bone has moved, hasn't healed, or is slow to unite, surgery to fix it with a small screw may be advised — discussed and priced individually.
Seen in days — not months on a list.
A named specialist, not a junior — all the way through.
Every price published and confirmed in writing.
Seen privately, without the wait.
We bill major UK insurers directly.
Why is a scaphoid fracture taken so seriously? +
The scaphoid has a delicate blood supply, so some fractures are slow to heal or fail to join. Diagnosing and treating it early gives the best chance of full healing and avoids longer-term wrist problems.
Can a scaphoid fracture be missed on an X-ray? +
Yes — early scaphoid fractures don't always show on a first X-ray. If the injury is suspected clinically, further imaging such as an MRI or a repeat X-ray is arranged to be sure.
How long does a scaphoid injury take to heal? +
It varies with where the break is and how it's treated. Your consultant will give you a realistic picture after assessing the wrist and reviewing any imaging.
Do I need surgery for a scaphoid fracture? +
Not always. Many undisplaced fractures heal in a cast. Surgery is considered when the bone has moved, is slow to heal, or hasn't joined — your consultant discusses the right option for you.
Don't put up with it.
Book an assessment with a consultant and get a clear picture — and a plan.