What is the function of the carpals?

The function of the carpals is to allow for the easy and free movement of the wrist. There are eight carpal bones: the scaphoid, the capitate, the trapezium, the trapezoid, the lunate, the triquetral, the pisiform and the hamate.

The carpal bones articulate with the radius and the ulna, which are the long bones in a person's forearm. Part of the carpals' function is also to facilitate the movement of these two bones as well as the movement of the hands. This is done through the arrangements of muscles, ligaments and tendons that connect the carpals with the other bones.