Forearm

The forearm is the part of the arm between the wrist (where the hand bends) and the elbow (where the arm bends). It is part of the upper arm, consisting of two bones, many muscles, blood vessels, and nerves.

The function of the forearm is connected to two major movements: rotation of the wrist and turning the hand to bring the palm upward or downward. This turning allows a person to use tools correctly.

Structure of the bones

The forearm contains two bones running side by side. One is positioned on the thumb side when the palm faces upward, the other on the side of the little finger. The two bones are connected by a membrane filling the space between them, which allows one bone to rotate over the other.

Muscles and nerves

The forearm muscles are divided into those on the palm side (which bend the fingers and wrist) and those on the back of the arm (which straighten the fingers and wrist). Many muscles extend long tendons through the wrist and fingers, so an injury to the forearm can affect hand movement. Numerous nerves also pass through the forearm, carrying sensation and commands to the hand muscles.

Common injuries

Fracture of the forearm bones is one of the most common injuries, especially when a person falls and extends the hand to catch themselves. Other injuries include torn tendons and nerve damage. Treatment varies depending on the type of injury: sometimes a cast and rest are sufficient, sometimes surgery is required.