The upper limb between the elbow and wrist joints is called the forearm.
The forearm is a crucial part of the upper limb, connecting the elbow to the wrist and enabling a wide range of movements. It's primary function is to facilitate pronation and supination (rotating the palm downwards and upwards, respectively).
Bony Structure of the Forearm
The forearm's skeletal framework consists of two bones:
- Radius: Located on the lateral (thumb) side of the forearm.
- Ulna: Located on the medial (pinky finger) side of the forearm.
These two bones articulate with each other at the proximal and distal radioulnar joints, allowing for the rotational movements characteristic of the forearm.
Muscles of the Forearm
Numerous muscles reside in the forearm, controlling movements of the wrist, hand, and fingers. These muscles can be broadly categorized into:
- Anterior Compartment Muscles: Primarily responsible for wrist and finger flexion (bending) and pronation.
- Posterior Compartment Muscles: Primarily responsible for wrist and finger extension (straightening) and supination.
Neurovascular Supply
The forearm receives its blood supply from the radial and ulnar arteries, which are branches of the brachial artery. The major nerves of the forearm are the median, ulnar, and radial nerves, which innervate the muscles and provide sensory information.
Common Injuries
The forearm is susceptible to various injuries, including:
- Fractures: Breaks in the radius or ulna.
- Sprains: Ligament injuries around the wrist or elbow.
- Strains: Muscle or tendon injuries.
- Tendonitis: Inflammation of the tendons, such as in tennis elbow (lateral epicondylitis) or golfer's elbow (medial epicondylitis).
In summary, the forearm is the region of the upper limb extending from the elbow to the wrist, composed of the radius and ulna bones, and facilitating essential movements of the hand and wrist.
