The radius (from the Latin radius, radius) is a skeletal bone present in the forearm.

Position. The radius is an elongated bone that, along with the ulna (formerly called ulna), forms the skeleton of the forearm. This bone starts at the elbow and extends to the thumb of the hand.

Structure. Within the radius, we distinguish 3 different elements:

– the central part, called diaphysis, which has a slightly curved shape

– the two ends: the proximal epiphysis articulating with the ulna and the humerus to form the elbow; and the distal epiphysis, which joins the carpus, bone system of the wrist (1).

The radius allows pronosupination movements of the forearm². Pronosupination is made up of two distinct movements:

– The supination movement which makes it possible to orient the palm of the hand upwards.

– The pronation movement which allows the palm of the hand to be oriented downwards.

fractures. The forearm, and in particular the radius, is often the site of fractures. Children, the elderly and athletes are the people most at risk.³

Pouteau-Colles Fracture. It is one of the most famous fractures of the radius. It designates bone rupture with displacement of the radius, most often due to a fall with landing on the hand and outstretched arm. This fracture is found more particularly in the elderly suffering from osteoporosis.

Bone pathologies.

osteoporosis. This pathology constitutes a loss of bone density which is generally found in people over the age of 60. It accentuates bone fragility and promotes fractures. (4)

Bone cancer. Metastases can develop in the bones. These cancer cells usually originate from primary cancer in another organ. (5)

Bone dystrophy. This pathology constitutes an abnormal development or remodeling of bone tissue and includes many diseases. One of the most common, Paget’s disease causes bone densification and deformation, resulting in pain. As for algodystrophy, it is the appearance of pain and / or stiffness following a trauma (fracture, surgery, etc.).

Drug treatments. Depending on the disease, different treatments are prescribed to regulate or strengthen bone tissue or reduce pain and inflammation.

Surgical treatment. Depending on the type of fracture, a surgical operation can be performed with, for example, the placement of pins, a screwed plate or even an external fixator.

Orthopedic treatment. Depending on the type of fracture, the installation of a plaster, a resin can be carried out to immobilize the radius.

Hormonal treatment, radiotherapy or chemotherapy. These treatments may be prescribed depending on the stage of cancer progression.

Medical imaging exam. X-ray, CT, MRI, scintigraphy or bone densitometry examinations can be used to assess bone pathologies.

Medical analysis. In order to identify certain pathologies, blood or urine analyzes can be carried out such as, for example, the dosage of phosphorus or calcium.

Bone biopsy. In some cases, a bone sample is taken to confirm a diagnosis.

In 2014, the National Center for Scientific Research (CNRS) as well as the National Institute of Preventive Archeology unveiled the discovery of arm and forearm bones, including that of the radius, on the banks of the Seine in Normandy. . These bones belonged to a pre-Neanderthal ancestor dating back 200 years. (000)