Carpal ligament

Carpal Ligament

The carpal ligament is a significant anatomical structure in the human hand. It is a part of the wrist and plays a crucial role in its function and mobility. The carpal ligament is also known as the transverse carpal ligament or the flexor retinaculum of the hand.

Anatomy

The carpal ligament is a broad and thick band of fibrous tissue that extends across the wrist. It is attached to the scaphoid bone and the trapezium bone on the radial side, and to the pisiform bone and the hook of the hamate bone on the ulnar side. The carpal ligament forms the roof of the carpal tunnel, a narrow passageway in the wrist through which the median nerve and several tendons pass.

Function

The primary function of the carpal ligament is to maintain the alignment of the carpal bones and to protect the structures within the carpal tunnel. It also provides a surface for the attachment of muscles and tendons, and contributes to the strength and flexibility of the wrist.

Clinical Significance

The carpal ligament is often involved in carpal tunnel syndrome, a common condition characterized by numbness, tingling, and pain in the hand due to compression of the median nerve at the wrist. Surgical release of the carpal ligament, known as carpal tunnel release, is a common treatment for this condition.

See Also

• Carpal bones
• Carpal tunnel
• Carpal tunnel syndrome
• Carpal tunnel release