Biomechanical Factors in Stability of the Forearm

In the forearm, ligaments and joints act in unison to facilitate placement of the hand in 3-dimensional space and transmit loads across the upper extremity. Intricate, effective forearm stabilizers facilitate physiologic motions and restrict abnormal ones. The proximal radioulnar joint, interosseous ligament complex, and distal radioulnar joint work together to ensure the forearm is stable. Each ligament and joint is designed to leverage its biomechanical advantages. Damage destabilizes the synergy of the forearm and results in debilitating injury patterns. Physicians need to understand how all these structures work together to be able to quickly diagnose and treat these forearm injuries.