fracture of radius

fracture of radius

Etymology: L, frangere + ray

a break in the radius, usually with backward and radial displacement of the wrist and hand. The fracture commonly occurs when a falling person extends the arm and hand in an effort to cushion the impact. See also Colles' fracture.

fracture of radius

A break in the radius. A common fracture of the lower end of the radius is a Colles' fracture, caused by falling on the outstretched hand. Fractures also occur along the shaft or at the upper end frequently involving the radial head.

See: fracture

See also: radius