Wrist essentials: structure, function, and common injuries

Your wrist is a complex joint composed of many bones, cartilage, and ligaments, which together enable a wide range of movement. Try rotating your hands to see how flexible your wrists are!

 Wrist structure

The wrist's structure allows flexibility for daily tasks while protecting vital nerves, blood vessels, and muscles. This protection is provided by bones and ligaments forming a secure framework.

The wrist has eight carpal bones in two rows: one near the forearm and one near the hand. Ligaments connect most of the wrist bones, providing flexibility, strength, and stability. Cartilage absorbs shock and reduces friction during movement.

Muscles that move the wrist start in the forearm and attach to the hand and fingers. A broad ligament secures the tendons of these muscles, maintaining alignment during wrist movements.

Why wrist injuries can occur Despite your wrist's clever structure, it's still vulnerable to various injuries. Trauma, lifestyle, and underlying medical issues can all contribute to wrist problems.

• Sprains, strains, fractures, and cartilage tears are usually caused by falls or activities where your wrist bears the brunt of the impact.

• Lifestyle factors include smoking, lack of exercise or stretching. Additionally, overuse or repetitive activities involving your wrist can cause repetitive strain injury (RSI), resulting in swelling, pain, stiffness and weakness over time.

• Underlying issues can include autoimmune disorders, arthritis and diabetes.

Carpal tunnel syndrome, for example, is a common wrist condition with several contributing factors. Inflammation causes swelling in the wrist and compresses the median nerve, leading to pain, numbness, and tingling in the fingers. This condition is often worsened by repetitive hand movements such as typing.

Maintaining good wrist health involves adopting healthy lifestyle habits, using proper ergonomics, and adjusting how you perform activities. If you need advice on preventing or treating wrist problems, feel free to ask us.