The upper limb is one of the most anatomically complex regions of the human body. It combines bones, joints, and muscles to provide strength and precise movement. This category explores the anatomy of the shoulder, arm, forearm, wrist, hand, and fingers. It also covers supporting structures, including the biceps and nails.
Each guide explains the bones, muscles, ligaments, and joints of a specific structure. It shows how these parts work independently and together within the upper limb. We use clearly labeled diagrams to improve understanding. Our experts write accurate explanations that remain accessible without a medical background. Qualified contributors with expertise in human anatomy and musculoskeletal research author and review every article.
This category helps students learn upper limb anatomy and supports healthcare learners studying functional relationships between structures. It also serves anyone interested in understanding how the arm and hand support everyday movement. Where relevant, our articles explain common injuries that affect specific joints and muscles.
Overview of Forearm Anatomy The forearm is the part of your arm between your elbow and wrist and it is the lower part of your arm.[1] Forearm anatomy consists of various bones, muscles, joints, and nerves.[1] Inside the forearm are two bones called the radius and ulna,[2][3] connected by an elastic tissue called the interosseous … Read more
Overview of Shoulder Anatomy The human shoulder anatomy is composed of three bones: the clavicle (collarbone), scapula (shoulder blade), and humerus (upper arm bone).[1][2] These bones are connected by joints, with the primary articulation being the glenohumeral joint, commonly referred to as the shoulder joint.[2] Additional joints, including the acromioclavicular (AC) joint, the sternoclavicular (SC) … Read more
Overview of Wrist Anatomy The wrist joint, or the radiocarpal joint, is a crucial connection between the forearm and hand.[1] It allows various movements like bending, straightening, side-to-side, and twisting.[1][2] This joint is like a modified ball and socket, allowing flexibility while maintaining stability.[2][1] The wrist anatomy (joint) is made up of bones that form … Read more
Overview of Hand Anatomy The human hand is one of the most important and versatile parts of the upper limb.[1] It is designed for both strength and precision, allowing us to feel, grasp, hold, and move objects with remarkable control.[1] From performing powerful actions like lifting or climbing to delicate tasks such as writing, typing, … Read more
Overview of Finger Anatomy Fingers are unique parts of the hand found in humans and many other animals. Over millions of years, they have developed to handle both delicate and strong tasks with skill.[1] Each finger has three bones, called phalanges, which are joined together and surrounded by muscles, tendons, and ligaments that help them … Read more
Overview of Biceps Anatomy The biceps brachii — commonly referred to as the “biceps” — is a large, thick, fusiform muscle on the ventral (anterior) surface of the upper arm.[1] It consists of two proximal heads: the short head (caput breve) and the long head (caput longum).[1] The short head originates at the coracoid process … Read more
Overview of Arm Anatomy The upper extremity, or arm, is a vital part of the human body that enables us to lift, hold, and move objects.[1] The human arm anatomy consists of three main parts: the upper arm, forearm, and hand. It stretches from the shoulder to the fingers and includes 30 bones in the … Read more
Overview of Nail Anatomy Nails are flat, protective structures found at the tips of the fingers and toes and are a defining feature of most primates. [2] They are composed of keratin — a tough, flexible protein that also constitutes hair and the outer skin layer, which enables nails to grow continuously and withstand daily … Read more