Carpal bones, also known as wrist bones, refer to a set of small, irregularly-shaped bones located in the human wrist. These bones make up the carpus, which is the anatomical region in the hand situated between the forearm and the metacarpus (the framework of bones connecting the wrist to the fingers). In total, there are eight carpal bones arranged in two rows, with four bones in each row.
The carpal bones provide stability to the wrist joint, while also allowing for a wide range of movement and flexibility. These bones are classified into two separate rows: the proximal row and the distal row. The proximal row consists of the scaphoid, lunate, triquetrum, and pisiform bones, located closer to the forearm, while the distal row contains the trapezium, trapezoid, capitate, and hamate bones, positioned closer to the hand.
The arrangement and structure of the carpal bones facilitate several crucial functions of the wrist, such as rotation, flexion, extension, abduction, adduction, as well as a combination of these movements. Additionally, they provide support and stability for the hand during various activities such as grasping, manipulating objects, and transferring forces between the forearm and the hand.
Understanding the anatomy and physiology of the carpal bones is essential in evaluating and diagnosing conditions and injuries in the wrist, including fractures, dislocations, arthritis, and carpal tunnel syndrome. Various healthcare professionals, such as orthopedic surgeons, radiologists, and physical therapists, utilize this knowledge in diagnosing, treating, and rehabilitating wrist disorders and injuries.
