All joints
Joint guide
Wrist joint
The wrist is where the forearm meets the hand. It is a cluster of small bones and ligaments that lets you bend, extend, and tilt the hand while transferring force from the arm to the fingers.
Diagram
Schematic for orientation — not a substitute for imaging or an in-person exam.
Related joints
Related anatomy topics
Sources & further reading
We cite major society patient education, NIH institute pages, and MedlinePlus for naming and general joint context. Links open in a new tab; access dates help you judge currency when guidelines update.
- Arthritis of the wrist (includes wrist joint anatomy overview) — OrthoInfo — American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons(accessed 2026-04-24)
- Hand and wrist anatomy — American Society for Surgery of the Hand(accessed 2026-04-24)
- Hand problems and arthritis — National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases (NIH)(accessed 2026-04-24)