15 Common Causes of Scaphoid Fracture

If you’re a fan of forensic and criminal procedure shows, then it’s likely that you’ve already heard of a scaphoid fracture – but if you’ve never heard of it before, the first thing that you should know is that it’s one of the most common types of fractures out there, and it refers to a bone located near the wrist that’s called the scaphoid.

There are many different ways in which a scaphoid fracture can occur, including as a consequence of stopping a fall with the hands and bracing the impact with the wrist instead and as a consequence of activities that strain the wrist and bones of the hand such as weightlifting. 

Usually, scaphoid fractures are immediately put into a cast for six to eight weeks to heal.

Many scaphoid injuries can be avoided with care: Here are 8 common causes of a scaphoid fracture that can help you to know when you’re at risk.

1. Consequence of Weightlifting

The most common way in which people pick up a scaphoid fracture is usually through a direct fall that’s stopped with the hands, transferring the impact of the fall directly to the scaphoid bone. Obviously, this isn’t the only possible activity that can place this amount of strain on the scaphoid bone, and it can also sometimes happen as a consequence of lifting too much weight with the wrist.

The most obvious career or sport where this is a danger is during weightlifting, but it can also happen to anyone else who lifts too much weight too fast. If you work in a career where lifting heavy boxes or bags is a part of the job, then you’re at risk for a scaphoid fracture, and could also be at risk of other career-related fractures and long-term injuries or conditions.

If you feel strain in your hands, arms or wrist – particularly at the base of the thumb – see a medical professional.