Radiocarpal Joint

Description

Illustration of the radiocarpal joint

Wrist x-ray with labeled osseous anatomy

Introduction

• Sometimes incorrectly called the "wrist joint"
• Articulation between the distal radius and corresponding carpal bones
• Condyloid-type synovial joint which marks the transition from the forearm to the hand

Articulation

• Proximal: distal end of the radius, articular disc
• Distal: scaphoid, lunate, triquetral of the proximal carpal row

Ligaments

• Palmar radiocarpal joint
• Dorsal radiocarpal ligament
• Radial collateral ligament

Innervation

• Anterior Interosseous Nerve
• Posterior Interosseous Nerve

Vascular Supply

• Branches of the dorsal and palmar carpal arches

Movements

• Flexion: flexor carpi radialis, support from the flexor digitorum superficialis
• Extension: extensor carpi radialis longus, extensor carpi radialis brevis, extensor digitorum
• Adduction (ulnar deviation):
• Abduction (radial deviation): abductor pollicis longus, flexor carpi radialis, extensor carpi radialis longus, extensor carpi radialis brevis

Wrist Joint

• Helps form the wrist joint
• Along with the Ulnocarpal Joint, Distal Radioulnar Joint

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Clinical Significance

• Distal Radius Fracture
• Scaphoid Fracture

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See Also

• Wrist Pain Main
• Hand And Wrist Anatomy Main
• Physical Exam Wrist

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