Flexion and extension and wrist

The wrist is a complex joint consisting of eight small bones that allow movement to take place between the forearm and the hand. Because of the structure of the wrist, the hand can perform both gross as well as fine movements. Arthritis, when it involves the wrist, severely restricts hand function.

A number of muscles and tendons permit these multiple movements.

Flexion

Bending the joint resulting in a decrease of angle; moving the palm of the hand toward the front of the forearm. Muscles and their tendons involved are:

• Flexor carpi radialis
• Flexor carpi ulnaris
• Palmaris longus
• Abductor pollicis longus
• Flexor digitorum profundus
• Flexor digitorum superficialis
• Flexor pollicis longus


Extension

Straightening the joint resulting in an increase of angle; moving the back of the hand toward the back of the forearm. Muscles and their tendons involved are:

• Extensor carpi radialis longus
• Extensor carpi radialis brevis
• Extensor carpi ulnaris
• Extensor digitorum
• Extensor pollicis longus
• Extensor indicis
• Extensor digiti minimi



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