

There is a disk of fibrous material called the triangular fibrocartilage (or "TFC") in between. The end of the ulna does not actually contact the carpal bones. Rotation of the wrist is a combination of these motions. The ligaments of the wrist joint that are on the back and front limit these movements. Aside from ulnar and radial deviation, the other movements at the radiocarpal joint are flexion (bending forward at the wrist) and extension (bending back). The equivalent ligament on the ulnar side goes from the ulnar styloid and limits radial deviation (tilting toward the thumb). This ligament is stretched by ulnar deviation (tilting the wrist towards the baby finger side) and also limits the total amount of ulnar deviation available. The radio-carpal ligament complex goes from the tip of the radius (called the radial styloid) and spreads out to attach to several bones of the wrist. Strong ligaments attach all the bones of the wrist together, which keeps the joints stable and limits excess movement. The shape of the bones alone is not enough to make the wrist a "stable" joint when compared to a joint like the hip. The two rows of carpal bones sit between the bones of the forearm and the metacarpal bones of the hand. The hand is a collection of small thin bones called the metacarpals and the phalanges.

The wrist is not a bone but rather a joint between the two bones of the forearm (the radius and the ulna) and the carpal bones of the wrist. What structures are most commonly injured?
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The wrist is also important for positioning the hand in space, so an injury to this region can be very debilitating and must be treated carefully to preserve function.ĭespite being such a common injury, there are a variety of fractures that can occur and such a large number of treatment options that there are still gaps in our knowledge and uncertainties about how to treat each individual wrist fracture. Conditions that make a fall more likely, such as icy, wet, or uneven surfaces can increase the risk of a wrist fracture.Ī strong pain-free wrist is needed for everyday activities like lifting, gripping and carrying. The forces that go through your wrist when you fall on your outstretched hand are many times the weight of the body. When you fall, it is only natural to put your hand out to break the fall and prevent more serious injuries to your face and body. Welcome to Evidence Sport and Spine's guide to adult wrist fractures.įractures of the wrist are common injuries.
