Wrist

• The wrist joint is formed by an articulation between:

  • Distal end of the radius and the articular disk
  • Proximal row of the carpal bones (except the pisiform) - scaphoid, lunate and triquetrum
• The wrist joint:

  • Also known as the radiocarpal joint - articulation between the radius and the carpal bones of the hand
  • Condyloid type synovial joint - allow movement in 2 planes
  • Marks the area of transition between the forearm and the hand
• Joint capsule:

  • Joint capsule of the wrist joint attaches to the radius, ulna and the proximal row of the carpal bones
  • Lined internally by synovial membrane, which produces synovial fluid to reduce friction between the articulating structures
• Movement:

  • Wrist is an condyloid type synovial joint, allowing for movement along 2 axes:
  • Flexion
  • Extension
  • Adduction
  • Abduction
• Main ligaments:

  • Palmar radiocarpal - stability and ensures hand follows forearm during supination
  • Doral radiocarpal - stability and ensures hand follows forearm during pronation
  • Ulnar collateral - prevents excessive radial (lateral) deviation of the hand
  • Radial collateral - prevents excessive ulnar (medial) deviation of the hand