AnatoMemory

Bone

Radius

Lateral forearm bone

Upper limbSkeletal system

High-yield

Distal radius (Colles) fracture is common after a fall on an outstretched hand → 'dinner-fork' deformity.

Overview

The lateral bone of the forearm that rotates around the ulna in pronation/supination and forms the major articulation with the wrist.

Reference facts

Bone type
Long
Key landmarks
Head; Neck; Radial tuberosity; Styloid process; Ulnar notch; Dorsal (Lister's) tubercle
Articulations
Humerus (capitulum); Ulna (proximal and distal radioulnar joints); Scaphoid and lunate (wrist joint)

Frequently asked questions

What type of bone is the radius?

The radius is a long bone.

What does the radius articulate with?

The radius articulates with the humerus (capitulum); Ulna (proximal and distal radioulnar joints); Scaphoid and lunate (wrist joint).

What are the key landmarks of the radius?

Key landmarks of the radius include the head; Neck; Radial tuberosity; Styloid process; Ulnar notch; Dorsal (Lister's) tubercle.