MUSCLES OF THE WRIST AND THE ACTIONS:
WRIST FLEXORS: flexor carpi radialis, flexor carpi ulnaris, palmaris longus
WRIST EXTENSORS: extensor carpi radialis longus & brevis, extensor carpi ulnaris

FINGER FLEXORS: flexor digitorum superficialis and profundus
FINGER EXTENSORS: extensor digitorum

THUMB FLEXORS: flexor pollicis longus & brevis
THUMB EXTENSORS: extensor pollicis longus & brevis,

FOREARM SUPINATOR: supinator
FOREARM PRONATOR: pronator teres & quadratus

COMMENTS: All the muscles in the forearm operate the hand. The easiest way to grasp these muscles is to divide them into function, as we have done here. Think of the hand as 3 major joints- the wrist, fingers and thumb. The muscles can easily be divided into these groups and then it makes evaluation and treatment really easy.

WRIST INJURIES: Carpal tunnel syndrome, Repetitive strain injury Overuse injury, pain, swelling, stiffness of joints, weakness and numbness.

IMBALANCE; in the muscles of the forearm, results in pain in the wrist. Usually affecting the extensors as a result of overuse of a computer. Or a tool e.g. bricklaying trowel.

ASSESSMENT: Wrist evaluation includes passive range of motion in the various directions, (supination, pronation, flexion, extension and lateral movement) looking for restriction, pain.

MASSAGE: Massage is an excellent treatment for the forearm muscles in cases of restriction. Carpal Tunnel Syndrome responds well to deep friction massage and Soft Tissue Release. Any painful Trigger Points can be addressed with neuro-muscular therapy.

CORRECTIVE EXERCISE/STRETCHING: To stretch over-tight flexors or extensors depending on the nature of the problem. To address relative weakness between these two muscle groups improving the function of the wrist.