3-Point Products' Blog

Anatomy of the Wrist

The carpal bones of the wrist make 2 rows of bones, the proximal and distal carpal row. Midcarpal instability (MCI) is related to lack of ligament support between the proximal carpal row and the midcarpal joint (between the 2 rows of bones). Midcarpal instability is most often of palmar type, but can also be considered dorsal or extrinsic depending on the specific ligament(s) involved in causing the instability.

Anatomy

The lunate and the triquetrum make up the ulnar side of the proximal carpal row at the wrist. Ligaments, particularly the lunotriquetral (LT) ligament, provide support to this joint. This ligament is horse-shoe or c-shaped and contains a volar, dorsal and proximal component.

With improved imaging techniques and diagnostics, ulnar sided wrist pain has become a better understood and diagnosed disorder. There are several products on the market to assist with decreasing symptoms from ulnar sided wrist pain. The following is information on four splints that are  clinically useful for individuals presenting with an ulnar sided wrist pain diagnosis. Due to the complexity of this diagnosis, trying more than one splint may be necessary to achieve optimal support and comfort.