Understanding the Carpus: Essential Bones for Wrist Functionality
The carpus, also known as the wrist, comprises a set of eight small bones arranged in two rows. Situated at the terminus of the radius and ulna bones, this cluster of bones serves as the vital link between the hand and the forearm. In addition to its structural role, the carpus houses three joints that are crucial for facilitating wrist movements and articulation.
Bones of the Wrist
The wrist, also known as the carpus, is made up of eight bones: scaphoid, lunate, triquetrum, pisiform, trapezium, trapezoid, hamate, and capitate. Each of these bones, except for the pisiform, has six surfaces. These surfaces may have rough textures to facilitate the attachment of muscles. In terms of structure, the bones of the wrist are quite similar, with a layer of compact bone surrounded by skeletal tissue.