Which carpal bone is most commonly fractured?

The scaphoid bone is the most commonly fractured carpal bone due to its position and the way it absorbs forces during wrist injuries. This bone is located near the base of the thumb and plays a critical role in wrist movement and stability.

Fractures often occur from falls onto an outstretched hand, a common scenario in sports and daily activities. The scaphoid is particularly vulnerable because it is situated in a way that can easily transmit force from the hand to the wrist. Moreover, the blood supply to the scaphoid is somewhat limited, particularly in the proximal part of the bone, which can complicate healing if a fracture occurs.

Understanding the mechanics of wrist injuries and the specific anatomical features of the scaphoid helps clarify why it is prone to fracture. The other carpal bones, while they can fracture under certain circumstances, do not have the same typical patterns of injury or consequences related to blood supply and healing, making the scaphoid stand out in this regard.