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Scaphoid Fracture of the Wrist: Rehab Exercises

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Introduction

Here are some examples of exercises for you to try. The exercises may be suggested for a condition or for rehabilitation. Start each exercise slowly. Ease off the exercises if you start to have pain.

You will be told when to start these exercises and which ones will work best for you.

How to do the exercises

Wrist flexion and extension

slide 1 of 5
slide 1 of 5, Wrist flexion and extension,
  1. Place your forearm on a table. Your affected hand and wrist should extend beyond the table, palm down.
  2. Bend your wrist to move your hand upward and allow your hand to close into a fist. Hold for about 6 seconds.
  3. Now lower your hand as far as you can and allow your fingers to straighten. Hold for about 6 seconds.
  4. Repeat both directions 8 to 12 times.
  5. It's a good idea to repeat these steps with your other hand.

Hand flip

slide 2 of 5
slide 2 of 5, Hand flip,
  1. Sit leaning forward with your legs slightly spread. Then place your affected forearm on your thigh with your palm down.
  2. Flip your hand over so the back of your hand rests on your thigh and your palm is up. Alternate between palm up and palm down while keeping your forearm on your thigh.
  3. Repeat 8 to 12 times.
  4. It's a good idea to repeat these steps with your other arm.

Thumb adduction and abduction

slide 3 of 5
slide 3 of 5, Thumb adduction and abduction,
  1. With your affected hand, point your fingers and thumb straight up. Your wrist should be relaxed and straight.
  2. Move your thumb away from your palm as far as you can. Hold for about 6 seconds. Then move your thumb back to the starting position, with your thumb resting against your index (pointing) finger.
  3. Repeat 8 to 12 times.
  4. It's a good idea to repeat these steps with your other hand.

Thumb flexion and extension

slide 4 of 5
slide 4 of 5, Thumb flexion and extension,
  1. Place your affected hand on a table with your thumb pointing up.
  2. Bend your thumb downward and across your palm. Your thumb should touch the base of your little finger.
  3. Hold for about 6 seconds. Then straighten your thumb.
  4. Repeat 8 to 12 times.
  5. It's a good idea to repeat these steps with your other hand.

Elbow flexion and extension

slide 5 of 5
slide 5 of 5, Elbow flexion and extension,
  1. Stand with your arms relaxed at your sides.
  2. With your affected arm, gently bend your elbow up toward you as far as possible. Your palm should face up.
  3. Then straighten your arm as much as you can.
  4. Repeat 2 to 4 times.
  5. It's a good idea to repeat these steps with your other arm.

Follow-up care is a key part of your treatment and safety. Be sure to make and go to all appointments, and call your doctor if you are having problems. It's also a good idea to know your test results and keep a list of the medicines you take.

Current as of: October 25, 2024

Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff

Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

Current as of: October 25, 2024

Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff

Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

The Health Encyclopedia contains general health information. Not all treatments or services described are covered benefits for Kaiser Permanente members or offered as services by Kaiser Permanente. For a list of covered benefits, please refer to your Evidence of Coverage or Summary Plan Description. For recommended treatments, please consult with your health care provider.