The two bones of the forearm are the radius and theulna.

Symptoms of a forearm fracture include pain, swelling, and deformity of the forearm.

Diagnosis of a forearm fracture can be made with a proper physical examination and X-ray studies.

forearm fracture

Dept. of Clinical Radiology, Salisbury District Hospital / Getty Images

Discussed here are radial shaft fractures, ulnar shaft fractures, and fractures of both forearm bones.

Radial Shaft Fractures

An isolated fracture of the radial shaft is an unusual injury.

If the fracture is out of position, then forearm rotation could be limited unless the fracture is realigned.

The name of the fracture is from people defending themselves from a policeman’s nightstick sustaining ulnar fractures.

Therefore, most both bones forearm fractures are treated with a plate and screws.

If the growth plate is disrupted, a child may need follow-up care to ensure the arm grows properly.

You may hear a cracking sound when youre first injured.

In some instances, splintered bones may pierce the skin and stick out.

The ulna and radius work together in a unique way.

They support muscles that cooperate to allow for the flexing and extending of the arm.

The bones also can pivot around one another to allow the hand and wrist to twist.

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