What are the metacarpals?

The metacarpals are indeed the bones located in the palm of the hand. There are five metacarpal bones, one corresponding to each digit, and they play a crucial role in the hand's structure, allowing for a range of movements essential for grasping and manipulation. They connect the wrist bones to the proximal phalanges of the fingers, making them integral to hand function.

Understanding their location and role helps clarify how the hand operates as a whole. The distinction between metacarpals and the other bone groups, such as those in the upper arm or fingers, is important for accurate anatomical comprehension. This knowledge is crucial for fields such as medicine, physiotherapy, and anatomy education, where a precise understanding of bone structure is necessary for effective practice.