Article

Proper functioning of the hand relies on its capacity to rotate and point the
palm upward (i.e. supination) or downward (i.e. pronation) when standing up with
the elbow in 90 degrees flexion. Hand rotation is possible because of forearm
rotation and also rotation of the whole upper limb at the shoulder. Two distinct
mechanisms contribute to hand rotation: one in which the ulna is immobile and
another in which the ulna is mobile. In this review, we first summarize how
evolution of the human species has led to the progressive development of specific
forearm anatomy that allows for pronation and supination.
Then we analyze how the
three joints of the forearm (i.e. proximal, middle and distal radioulnar joints),
in association with the characteristic shape of both forearm bones, allow the
forearm to rotate around a single axis. Lastly, we describe the neuromuscular
anatomy that controls these complex rotational movements. The anatomical and
biomechanical points developed in this paper are analyzed while considering
clinical applications.
CI - Copyright (c) 2016 SFCM. Published by Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.

Langue : ANGLAIS