Carpal Bones Mnemonic
Remembers the eight carpal bones of the wrist in order from lateral to medial, proximal row first then distal row. Essential for understanding wrist anatomy, fractures, and carpal tunnel syndrome.
The Mnemonic
"So Long To Pinky, Here Comes The Thumb"
Breakdown
Scaphoid
Proximal row, lateral - most commonly fractured carpal bone
Lunate
Proximal row - articulates with radius, can dislocate
Triquetrum
Proximal row, medial - articulates with hamate
Pisiform
Proximal row, sesamoid bone in FCU tendon
Hamate
Distal row - hook of hamate is palpable
Capitate
Distal row - largest carpal bone, central position
Trapezoid
Distal row - wedge-shaped between capitate and trapezium
Trapezium
Distal row, lateral - articulates with thumb metacarpal
Clinical Relevance
Scaphoid fractures are common in falls on outstretched hand (FOOSH), may have avascular necrosis. Lunate dislocations compress median nerve. Hook of hamate fractures occur in golfers and baseball players.
Study Tips
- ✓Start from the thumb side (lateral) for proximal row
- ✓Distal row goes from pinky side back to thumb
- ✓Scaphoid is the most palpated carpal bone (anatomical snuffbox)
- ✓Carpal tunnel contains: 4 FDS, 4 FDP, FPL, median nerve
FAQs
Common questions about this mnemonic
The scaphoid has retrograde blood supply from distal to proximal. Fractures, especially at the waist, can disrupt blood flow causing avascular necrosis of the proximal pole. Initial X-rays may be negative; follow-up or MRI needed.
The anatomical snuffbox is a triangular depression on the lateral wrist formed by thumb extensor tendons. Tenderness here suggests scaphoid fracture. The radial artery and superficial radial nerve cross through it.