The scaphoid bone is one of eight small bones in your wrist, located on the thumb side (also called the lateral or radial side). Its shape resembles a boat, hence its name derived from the Greek word for "boat." This crucial bone plays a vital role in both wrist movement and stability.
Anatomy and Location
- Position: Situated between the hand and forearm, specifically on the thumb side of your wrist.
- Function: Essential for wrist motion and stability.
- Shape: Long and curved, like a boat.
The scaphoid bone is frequently involved in wrist fractures. Multiple sources confirm this, highlighting the common occurrence of scaphoid fractures after falls onto an outstretched hand. These fractures often cause pain and swelling on the thumb side of the wrist. Diagnosis usually involves imaging techniques to assess the fracture location, displacement, and other characteristics.
Scaphoid Fractures: A Common Issue
Many resources, including the American Society for Surgery of the Hand (https://www.assh.org/handcare/condition/scaphoid-fracture), Nationwide Children's Hospital (https://www.nationwidechildrens.org/conditions/scaphoid-fractures), Cleveland Clinic (https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/22240-scaphoid-fracture), and the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (https://www.orthoinfo.org/en/diseases--conditions/scaphoid-fracture-of-the-wrist/), emphasize the high incidence of scaphoid fractures. Symptoms frequently include pain, swelling, and bruising on the thumb side of the wrist. The scaphoid's location and function make it susceptible to injury from falls.
