Question
I fell on my hand 7 weeks ago and still have bad pain on the thumb side of my wrist when moving or leaning on the hand. A scaphoid fracture was ruled out by bone scan. I had a splint for 2 weeks but the doctor said I should put it away. It is clicking in hand and joint and feels as if something was not at the right place. Movement is not as far as normal. If there is something wrong with the ligaments, will this heal without cast or surgery?  How long would this take? I try to stretch and move the wrist but it is very painful.

Answer
Hi Jutta,

I'm glad that you staying on top of this problem.  My son had a similar injury and did not take care of it.  Lot's of trouble for a long time.

Casting and surgery are not going to help at this time.

At this point you should be getting adivce on stretching, mobilizing and adaptation.  The fibrotic (scar) tissue is "organizing" and becomes steadily more permanent.  Retaining normal range of motion is primary.  

The pain and clicking will improve over time.  It often takes months.  But retaining the motion/function is a priority while this is happening.

Some chiropractic doctors work with the extremities (ie wrists) more than others.  There are physical therapists that are good at recommending stretching and strengthening of specific areas.  Ask and then get some guidance.

Hope this helps.

Grace and peace, Dr Pendergraft