Knowra Carpal bones Carpal bones The eight small bones of each wrist, arranged in proximal and distal rows between the forearm and metacarpal bones. Their articulations enable wrist movement while maintaining a compact, load-bearing structure.
Proximal row of carpal bones : The wrist’s proximal carpal row, containing the scaphoid, lunate, triquetrum, and pisiform. These four bones meet the forearm at the wrist’s radiocarpal joint.
Radiocarpal joint : The wrist joint between the distal radius and the proximal carpal row. It transmits motion and load from the forearm through the scaphoid and lunate.
Scaphoid fracture : A break in the scaphoid, often caused by falling onto an outstretched hand. The scaphoid’s blood supply can make healing difficult, especially after fractures near its proximal end.
Metacarpal bones : The five bones of the palm, connecting the carpus to the finger bones. They articulate with the distal carpal row but are not part of the wrist’s eight bones.
Distal row of carpal bones : The distal carpal row, containing the trapezium, trapezoid, capitate, and hamate. These four bones articulate with the metacarpals and link them to the proximal row.
Midcarpal joint : The complex joint between the proximal and distal rows of carpal bones. Its coordinated motion contributes substantially to wrist flexion and extension.
Lunate dislocation : Displacement of the lunate from its normal position in the wrist joint. The lunate can dislocate into the carpal tunnel and compress the median nerve.
Radius : The forearm bone on the thumb side that articulates with the wrist. It meets the proximal carpal row, unlike the ulna, which is separated from it by an articular disc.
Scaphoid bone : A boat-shaped carpal bone spanning the proximal and distal rows on the thumb side of the wrist. It is the largest bridge between the two rows and a frequent site of fracture.
Intercarpal joints : The joints connecting neighboring carpal bones within and between the two rows. Their small, linked movements let the carpal rows adapt to changing loads.
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