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Anatomy, Biomechanics, and Loads of the Wrist Joint

Authors :
Jörg Eschweiler
Jianzhang Li
Valentin Quack
Björn Rath
Alice Baroncini
Frank Hildebrand
Filippo Migliorini
Source :
Life, Vol 12, Iss 2, p 188 (2022)
Publication Year :
2022
Publisher :
MDPI AG, 2022.

Abstract

The wrist is by far the most differentiated section of the musculoskeletal system. The spectrum of wrist injuries ranges from minor injuries to complex traumas with simultaneous loss of functions, resulting in enormous economic costs. A proper understanding of the anatomy and biomechanics is essential for effective treatment, whether conservative or surgical; this applies to the wrist no less than to other parts of the human body. Here; information on the wrist anatomy; kinematics; and biomechanical behavior is presented, commencing with a brief explanation of the structure of its hard and soft tissues. Eight carpal bones in combination with two forearm bones (radius and ulna) construct the wrist joint. The motion of the wrist joint is initiated by the muscles of the forearm, and strong and short ligaments ensure the stability of the wrist. All of these components are essential to bringing functions to the wrist joint because these structures allow wrist mobility and sustainability. In addition, the kinematics of the wrist joint is presented and different biomechanical model approaches. The therapeutic (surgical) restoration of the balance between the load–bearing capacity and the actual stress on a joint is the prerequisite for a lifelong and trouble-free function of a joint. Regarding the complex clinical problems, however, a valid biomechanical wrist joint model would be necessary as assistance, to improve the success of systematized therapies based on computer–aided model–based planning and intervention.

Details

Language :
English
ISSN :
20751729
Volume :
12
Issue :
2
Database :
Directory of Open Access Journals
Journal :
Life
Publication Type :
Academic Journal
Accession number :
edsdoj.bd1d6e01400490785e4519b0f75fea3
Document Type :
article
Full Text :
https://doi.org/10.3390/life12020188