Joints by definition are places in the body that allow bone on bone movement.The wrist is a series of joints that allow for the necessary movement for functional activities of daily living. These motions include flexion, extension, ulnar and radial deviation as well as a combined wrist and elbow motion for pronation and supination. Individual bony structure and soft tissue mobility as well as injury can all effect range of motion.
Flexion
Wrist flexion is the bending motion at the wrist, toward the palm. Normal flexion allows 80 degrees from the neutral position. The neutral position is when the hand is extended even with the arm.
Extension
Wrist extension is the motion of pulling the back of the hand up toward the face, when the palm is facing the floor. Normal extension is 70 degrees.
RadialDeviation
Radial deviation is the side bending of the wrist toward the thumb. This motion should measure 20 degrees at the end point for normal range of motion.
Ulnar Deviation
Ulnar deviation is the side bending of the wrist toward the little finger. The normal range of motion should be 30 degrees.
Pronation
Wrist pronation is a motion that is done in conjunction with the elbow joint. The normal range of pronation is 90 degrees. This motion begins with the thumb of the fist facing the ceiling, with the elbow bent at 90 degrees. Then rotate the thumb to the inside and down toward the floor until the fist is parallel with the floor. A good way to check this is to hold a pencil in your fist during the motion.
Supination
Elbow supination is the exact opposite of pronation. Beginning with the thumb up, rotate your fist to the outside, ending with the palm facing the ceiling. Normal range of motion for supination is also 90 degrees.
Effects
Even minor limitations can have a great deal of effect on the ability to perform normal activities. Bony restriction within the carpal joints may seem very unimportant, but can be quite restrictive. Injury can create swelling, tenderness, scar tissue and other limiting factors on range of motion as well. Maintaining the full and normal range of motion is extremely important for the health of your wrist and hands.
