Undiagnosed scaphoid fracture presenting as chronic wrist pain

Uncomplicated scaphoid fracture is not a common cause of chronic wrist pain. However, the symptom is commonly presented to orthopaedic specialists including chiropractors and, because of the potential complications, this fracture should be considered in the differential diagnosis. Under-reporting of this injury in the chiropractic literature, particularly when chronic, suggests that this may need emphasising to the clinician. The symptoms, pathology and radiographic anatomy of a scaphoid fracture are discussed and the management of old and non-union scaphoid fractures detailed.