01 / Location & anatomical relationships
Between your elbow and wrist.
02 / Structure & organization
The radius and ulna are joined by an interosseous membrane. Anterior compartments contain many flexors and pronators; posterior compartments contain many extensors and supinators. Long tendons continue across the wrist into the hand.
03 / Function
It contains two bones, the radius and ulna.
04 / Mechanism
The radius and ulna sit side by side. When the palm turns, the radius rotates around the ulna. Muscles in the forearm send long tendons into the hand to help move the wrist and fingers.
Part of a bigger picture
The forearm belongs in our arms & hands collection. Explore the nearby parts to see how this area of the body fits together.
Explore arms & hands →FOR DEEPER STUDY
Connect structure with function
During pronation the radius crosses the ulna. Many movements seen at the fingers originate in muscles whose main bulk lies in the forearm.
Check your understanding
Locate the forearm in relation to its neighbors. Explain how the structural features described above support its function, then distinguish it from a nearby structure with a different role.
Keep learning
Continue with OpenStax Anatomy and Physiology for system-level study. This atlas is educational and has not undergone independent medical peer review.