Upper Limb – Additional Structures

Overview

Beyond muscles and bones, several specialised structures contribute to the fine control and stability of the upper limb. This section introduces the connective and supporting tissues that enhance precision and dexterity.

Key Structures

Articles include the anatomy of the nail unit, extensor tendon expansion, flexor pulley system, and the fascia and ligaments of the hand. Each topic details structural organisation and its role in movement efficiency.

Clinical Relevance and Learning Focus

Understanding these smaller but significant anatomical components is key for diagnosing hand injuries, tendon disorders and surgical repair planning. The section bridges micro-anatomical detail with functional and clinical relevance.

+ Read more
Anatomical diagram of the fascia and ligaments on the palmar aspect of the hand.

Fascia and Ligaments of the Hand

Lateral view of the extensor apparatus of the hand, highlighting the insertion points of the lumbrical and interossei muscles.

The Extensor Expansion of the Hand

The Nail Unit

The Flexor Pulley System of the Hand

Popular

Lateral view of the skull highlighting the path of the meningeal arteries, with emphasis on the pterion and the anterior middle meningeal artery.
Encyclopaedia

Middle Meningeal Artery

by Emily West

Renal System

The Glomerulus

by Dr Oliver Jones

Palmar view of the labeled thenar muscles of the thumb, including the abductor pollicis brevis, opponens pollicis, and flexor pollicis brevis, along with the recurrent branch of the median nerve.
Encyclopaedia

Abductor Pollicis Brevis

by Dr Oliver Jones