INJURIES: Hand Fracture, Navicular

Wednesday, April 21, 2010

A complete or incomplete break in the navicular bone of the hand.

BODY PARTS INVOLVED

Navicular (scaphoid) bone in the hand.
Wrist joint.
Soft tissue around the fracture site, including nerves, tendons, ligaments and blood vessels.

Causes

Direct blow or indirect stress to the bone. The force is usually inflicted by a fall on an outstretched hand.

Follow your doctor's instructions. Instructions are supplemental.

Immobilization will be necessary. A Rigid cast or plaster splints is placed around the injured area to immobilize the joint above and the joint below the fracture site.
After 48 hours, localized heat promotes healing by increasing blood circulation in the injured area. Use a heating pad or heat lamp so heat can penetrate the cast.
After the cast is removed,use frequent ice massage. Fill a large Styrofoam cup with water and freeze. Tear a small amount of foam from the top so ice protrudes. Massage firmly over the injured area in a circle about the size of a baseball. Do this for 15 minutes at a time, 3 or 4 times a day, and before workouts or competition.

MEDICATION

Your doctor may prescribe:

General anesthesia, local anesthesia, or muscle relaxants to make bone manipulation possible.
Narcotic or synthetic narcotic pain relievers for severe pain.
Acetaminophen (available without prescription) for mild pain after initial treatment.

Drink only water before manipulation or surgery to treat the fracture. Solid food in your stomach makes vomiting while under anesthesia more hazardous.
During recovery, eat a well-balanced diet that includes extra protein, such as meat, fish, poultry, cheese, milk and eggs.

Use appropriate protective equipment such as boxing gloves for boxing.
If you have had a previous injury, use tape and padding to protect your hand before participating in contact sports.