The effects of Scaphoid and Colles casts on hand function

Although necessary for bone healing, immobilisation temporarily prevents hand function and may necessitate corrective physiotherapy later. Scaphoid and Colles casts are both commonly used to immobilize scaphoid fractures. Non-union rates are comparable with both casts. The Scaphoid cast incorporates the thumb, whereas the Colles cast leaves the thumb free. We compared the effect of the two casts on hand function in 20 healthy right-hand-dominant volunteers using the Jebsen-Taylor Hand Function Test. Data were obtained through a mixed between and within subject design. Both casts prolonged the time taken to complete the hand function test compared to controls. Testing in the Scaphoid cast took significantly longer than in the Colles cast.