Which bones are responsible for moving the hand?

The metacarpals are the bones that play a significant role in moving the hand. There are five metacarpal bones in each hand, and they connect the wrist (carpals) to the fingers (phalanges). Their positioning allows for the articulation of the hand at the wrist and facilitates the movement of the fingers. The metacarpals act as a supportive structure for the palm and are crucial for gripping and manipulating objects, as well as for the overall dexterity of the hand.

While the carpals are important for wrist movement and stability, they do not directly facilitate movements of the hand itself. The phalanges are the bones of the fingers that enable finer movements, but they rely on the metacarpals for overall positioning and coordination. The ulna, on the other hand, is a forearm bone that contributes to the structure and function of the wrist joint but does not directly enable hand movements. Thus, the metacarpals are fundamental in enabling the hand's mobility and functionality, highlighting their key role in hand movement.