Interactive Guide to Physical Examination
Musculoskeletal

Elbow, Forearm, Wrist, and Hand - Anatomy Review

The elbow joint, made up of the humerus and its articulations with the radius and ulna, stabilizes the forearm and positions the arm in space. Disorders involving the elbow may involve the joint itself or the surrounding structures including the epicondyles, olecranon bursa, and radial and ulnar nerves.

The multiple joints of the wrist and hand allow for the exceptional dexterity of movement. However, the wrist and hand have a large number of relatively unprotected bones that are vulnerable to injury. The wrist includes the distal ulna and distal radius as well as the carpal bones. Knowledge of the anatomical structures of the wrist and hand allow for complete examination and accurate diagnosis.

View interactive module Click on the interactive icon to review elbow and forearm anatomy.

View interactive module Click on the interactive icon to review wrist and hand anatomy.