Overview
The anatomy of the hand is complex, intricate, and fascinating. Its integrity is absolutely essential for our everyday functional living. Our hands may be affected by many disorders, most commonly traumatic injury. For any physician or therapist treating hand problems, the mastery of such anatomy is fundamental in order to provide the best quality of care. (See the image below.)
Surface anatomy of the left hand. A is the dorsum of the left hand, and B is the palm of the left hand. Number 1 is the position of the extensor retinaculum, 2 is the position of the flexor retinaculum, 3 is the position of the head of the metacarpals, 4 is the ulnar artery, 5 is the radial artery, 6 is the level of the deep palmar arch, and 7 is the level of the superficial palmar arch.
A total of 27 bones constitute the basic skeleton of the wrist and hand. The hand is innervated by 3 nerves — the median, ulnar, and radial nerves — each of which has sensory and motor components. The muscles of the hand are divided into intrinsic and extrinsic groups.