In the LVHA carpal bone squeeze, what is the primary biomechanical effect on the carpal bones?

• A. Push the Carpal Bones Together
• B. Slightly Gap the Carpal Bones
• C. Dislocate the Carpal Bones
• D. Tilt the Carpal Bones

Answer: (B)

The force from the LVHA carpal bone squeeze is transmitted through the wrist’s ligamentous connections in a way that tends to separate the two carpal rows slightly rather than lock them together. Because of the curved shape of the carpal arrangement and the constraints of the intercarpal ligaments, a gentle squeeze promotes a small distraction at the joints, creating a slight gap between the bones. This mild gapping helps mobilize the carpal rows and release tight adhesions without driving the bones into dislocation or causing a gross tilt. Thus, the primary biomechanical effect is a slight gap between the carpal bones.