Final answer:
Special projections of the wrist, such as X-rays, are taken to diagnose and assess the severity of wrist injuries and fractures.
Step-by-step explanation:
Special projections of the wrist, such as X-rays, are taken when there is a suspected injury or fracture in the wrist area. For example, if someone falls on their hand and experiences deep pain at the lateral wrist, a radiograph taken several weeks after the injury can reveal a fracture in the scaphoid bone, which is the most commonly fractured carpal bone. These projections help doctors diagnose and assess the severity of wrist injuries and determine the appropriate course of treatment.