Definition - What does Flexion of the Wrist mean?
Flexion of the wrist is an anatomical term of motion. When wrist flexion occurs, the angle between the palm of the hand and the forearm is reduced, bending the hand toward the front of the forearm. The wrist may also flex from left to right; these movements are termed ulnar and radial deviation. Flexion of the wrist is also called wrist flexion. Flexion of the wrist, if held too long or done in an awkward manner, can result in injury to the tendons or muscles. Good workplace practices and ergonomic design is required to lessen the chance of injuries. Flexion of the wrist is also called wrist flexion.
SureHire explains Flexion of the Wrist
When the arm is held in a neutral posture, flexion of the wrist reduces the angle between the palm, pointing the fingers toward the body in a cup-like position. The opposite motion, extension, bends the back of the hand upward. In this position, the palm is parallel to the floor.
Several wrist flexor muscles, including the flexor carpi radialis, control flexion of the wrist. Tasks involving repetitive or forceful wrist flexion in the workplace are associated with the development of musculoskeletal disorders. Awkward position, vibration, and cold temperatures can exacerbate hand and wrist related musculoskeletal injuries.
An example of one such disorder is carpal tunnel syndrome. Tendons of the flexor muscles and the median nerve pass through the wrist to the hand via a bony tunnel called the "carpal tunnel." A total of 9 tendons pass through this tunnel. When the wrist is subjected to repetitive stress, the tendons of the flexor muscles can become inflamed, causing pressure on the median nerve. This situation causes carpal tunnel syndrome, which is characterized by tingling, numbness, and pain in the wrist and hand. Musculoskeletal disorders of the hand and wrist are a substantial cause of absences and loss of productivity in the workplace.
