Fractures and dislocations of the carpal bones.

The most common wrist fractures in athletes are fractures of the scaphoid and fractures of the hook of the hamate. Accurate diagnosis and conservative treatment are extremely important. A physician should not compromise principles of treatment for a rapid return of the athlete to competition, because all too often this will jeopardize eventual recovery and his or her future career. It is far better to be conservative, to insist upon complete recovery before permitting competition, especially in high-school and college students, and to be more concerned with the athlete's potential achievements than immediate accomplishments. These axioms are especially applicable when treating young individuals with suspected or proven wrist injuries.