Carpals

The primary function of the carpals is to enable a wide range of movements at the wrist joint, which is vital for numerous everyday activities. The flexibility and arrangement of carpals allow for both fine and gross motor skills. They enable actions such as gripping, lifting, and rotating the hand, making them essential for various tasks from writing to playing sports. Additionally, the carpals help to absorb shock and distribute forces that result from activities involving the hands, thus protecting the bones and joints of the hand and forearm.

The carpals are located in the wrist region, positioned between the forearm and the hand. They form two rows of four bones each. In the proximal row, from lateral to medial (thumb to pinky), are the scaphoid, lunate, triquetrum, and pisiform bones. The distal row consists of the trapezium, trapezoid, capitate, and hamate bones. This anatomical arrangement allows for the mobility and stability essential for wrist function. The entire carpals structure is encased in a fibrous capsule, which contributes to the integrity and functionality of the wrist joint.

• The scaphoid bone, one of the carpals, is the most commonly fractured carpal bone due to falls on an outstretched hand.
• The carpals are unique in that they are not only capable of lateral and medial movement but also contribute to wrist flexion and extension.
• Despite being small, the carpals are critical for hand movement and function; injuries can lead to significant impairment.