Question about scaphoid fracture

[icedqueen]

Fell over last week and onto my wrist. The pain was very bad so I went to A&E who couldn't diagnose a definite scaphoid break from the X-ray which I'm told is common.

They gave me a splint and asked me to come back for an MRI which is on Wednesday.

However since then I've been wearing the splint and the pain has subsided a lot. When I remove the splint it's only slightly tender around my thumb.

Would you still go to the MRI? What is the chance it could be broken, given that the pain is almost gone?

Go, scaphoid fractures can lead to nerve issues. Get it sorted.

Yes I would go if they've advised it. My sister had this fracture and didn't know for a few days!

Go!
Scaphoid fractures are a bugger to heal. I wouldn’t risk it.

It was very very painful when I went and I couldn't move my finger and thumb together which is why they wanted to follow up. I really don't want to have a cast!!

Yes, definitely go. As a student nurse I worked in the fracture clinic. Broken scaphoids can be hasty.

Nasty obviously!

@Watto1 is it likely to be a break if the pain has mostly gone?

It's really difficult to tell with scaphoid fractures. We always used to err on the side of caution and treat a suspected scaphoid fracture as if it was broken. Once the bone has started to heal, you can see the new bone more clearly on x-rays. Please go for your scan just in case.

Yes go, fractured scaphoids can lead to problems later, best to be sure all is well and healing. It won't take long and no radiation dose.