Scapholunate Ligament Injury

Wrist and Forearm

Symptoms

If you have an injured scapholunate ligament, your wrist will be swollen and painful, especially with certain movement. You may also see the following symptoms:

  • Pain when bending (especially backward movement)
  • Pain and swelling, usually on the back side of the wrist
  • Popping or grinding
  • Weakness in the wrist and limited movement

How it occurs

A scapholunate ligament injury is one of the most commonly injuries in the hand. The scapholunate ligament connects the scaphoid to the lunate (2 small bones in your hand) and abnormal flexing or extension can cause a tear or strain because the scapholunate ligament connects these bones tightly.

Treatment

Scapholunate ligament Injuries can be treated with with our custom made thermoplastic waterproof orthosis. This custom made ‘cast’ traditionally stays on the patient for 2-6 weeks with limited and minimal activity such as gripping and pushing.

Our Action Rehab Rehab clinicians will tailor an exercise program including ROM and strengthening as part of the rehabilitation process.

Meet Ben

Our senior therapist

Ben Cunningham is currently the Hand Therapist at the AFL club The Melbourne Demons and the director of Action Rehab. Ben has over 20 years of experience providing hand and upper limb therapy, including working in the United Kingdom at the Queen Victoria Hospital and as the senior clinician at the Alfred Hospital in Melbourne.

Book a senior therapist consultation

Ben, our senior therapist, will offer advice on any management strategies you may need. Please note, if you request ongoing care, you will only have to pay our current rates. We do not charge Worksafe and TAC clients for any consultations.

Call 1300 76227to book an appointment or Click Here to book.

Find your local clinic.