First metacarpal bone

First Metacarpal Bone

The first metacarpal bone is the metacarpal bone of the thumb. As it is the most mobile of the metacarpals, it has a unique structure. The first metacarpal bone is shorter and wider than the others, allowing for a greater range of motion.

Structure

The first metacarpal bone is located in the hand, proximal to the proximal phalanx of the thumb. It is shorter and wider than the other metacarpal bones. The first metacarpal bone has a base, a shaft, and a head. The base is the part of the bone that is closest to the wrist, the shaft is the long, slender part of the bone, and the head is the rounded end of the bone that articulates with the proximal phalanx of the thumb.

Function

The first metacarpal bone, along with the other metacarpal bones, forms the framework of the palm of the hand. It allows for the movements of the thumb, including flexion, extension, abduction, adduction, and opposition.

Clinical significance

Injuries to the first metacarpal bone, such as fractures, can cause significant disability. Treatment may involve immobilization, physical therapy, or surgery.

Etymology

The term "metacarpal" comes from the Greek words "meta," meaning after, and "carpus," meaning wrist. The first metacarpal bone is so named because it is the first bone after the wrist.

Related terms

• Metacarpal bones
• Thumb
• Proximal phalanx of the thumb
• Carpus

See also

• Hand
• Bone
• Human skeleton

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