håndarm

Håndarm is a term used in Norwegian medical and anatomical writing to denote the combined hand and forearm, from the elbow to the fingertips. It is used to describe anatomy, movement, and pathology of the distal upper limb and is common in clinical assessment, rehabilitation planning, and ergonomic analyses.

Anatomically, håndarm encompasses the radius and ulna, the carpal bones of the wrist, the metacarpals of the palm, and the phalanges. It includes the radiocarpal and other wrist joints, the metacarpophalangeal and interphalangeal joints, plus the muscles, tendons, nerves (median, ulnar, radial), and vessels that service these structures.

Functionally, the håndarm enables grip, dexterity, sensation, and tool handling. Coordination between forearm rotation, wrist motion, and finger movements underpins tasks from typing to manual labor and fine manipulation.

Common conditions affecting the håndarm include distal forearm fractures, carpal tunnel syndrome, de Quervain’s tenosynovitis, trigger finger, tendinopathy, ganglion cysts, and nerve injuries. Repetitive strain and acute trauma can impair strength and sensation in this region.

Diagnosis relies on clinical examination and imaging such as X-ray, ultrasound, or MRI, with nerve studies when neuropathy is suspected. Treatments range from splinting and physical therapy to analgesia and surgical intervention for fractures, compressive neuropathies, or tendon pathology, depending on severity and functional goals. The term reflects the boundary between forearm and hand in Norwegian usage and often appears with forearm and hand terminology in broader texts.