How the Wrist Moves: Wrist Biomechanics and Carpal Theories

The wrist facilities load transfer from the hand to the forearm in a variety of positions through intricate soft tissue and osseous interactions. Despite substantial research, there is no unifying theory that describes all wrist motion. Understanding the theories of carpal motion is imperative to understand, treat, and rehabilitate wrist pathology, as individual wrists often exhibit characteristics consistent with portions of each theory. The evolution of technology has facilitated more nuanced understanding of the contribution of ligamentous structures, allowing improved surgical decision-making, the development of new techniques, and the potential for more efficient treatments.