What is the interosseous membrane of the forearm?

The interosseous membrane is a fibrous sheet that connects the radius and ulna bones. It stabilizes them while allowing rotational movements, forming part of a syndesmosis joint called the middle radio-ulnar joint.

What are the main functions of the interosseous membrane?

Its key functions include holding the radius and ulna together firmly, transmitting compressive forces from the hand to the ulna and humerus, and serving as an attachment site for deep forearm muscles.

How does the interosseous membrane relate to blood vessels in the forearm?

It has openings for blood vessels: the posterior interosseous vessels pass through a gap at its upper border, and the anterior interosseous vessels pierce it about 5 cm above its lower end to reach the posterior forearm.

What structures are located near the interosseous membrane?

It is closely related to neurovascular structures: anteriorly, the anterior interosseous artery and nerve, and posteriorly, the posterior interosseous nerve and anterior interosseous artery.

How does the interosseous membrane connect to other forearm joints?

It blends distally with the capsule of the inferior radio-ulnar joint and, along with the oblique cord, forms a fibrous connection that complements the proximal and distal radio-ulnar joints.

What is the direction of the fibers in the interosseous membrane?

The fibers run downwards and medially from the radius to the ulna, which helps in transmitting forces and stabilizing the bones during forearm movements.

Interosseous Membrane – Forearm Anatomy & Function