2005-10-18

90% Fractured

So another x-ray later and it still isn't definitely fractured. The doctor reckons probably 90% certain that it is. To find out for sure would need a bone scan, which involves a dose of radiation equivalent to 180 chest x-rays. The decision is mine, so I opt for the plaster (the several hours hanging around waiting for the radio-active dye to circulate and accumulate is almost as much of a deterrent as the potential cancer).

The difficulty of diagnosis is a good sign. The fracture hasn't moved, so it should have no problem healing in five weeks. And I can drive with the plaster - which isn't plaster these days but some magic lightweight setting bandage thing. Posted by Picasa

2005-10-06

Clinically Fractured

On Tuesday I didn't even know what a scaphoid was - on Wednesday I was nursing a clinically fractured one.

The problem with playing badminton in the village hall is that the walls are quite close to the edge of the court. Losing your balance whilst chasing for that elusive short shot over the net (and missing it), then stopping your fall with your outstretched-at-90-degree wrist is a textbook way of breaking your scaphoid. I know now that it is one of the carpal bones in your hand.

Hard to tell whether it is fractured initially (the x-rays showed that it was OK, but they often do), I have to wear a splint in case it is (hence the "clinical") and go back in 10 days time to find out for sure. The suspense!