Broken forearm

Broken forearms in children

What is a broken forearm?

A broken forearm is a break in one (or both) of the bones of the forearm: the radius and/or ulna. The break can occur near the elbow joint, near the wrist joint or in the middle of the bone. Although the radius can break (fracture) independently of the ulna, it is much more common for the two bones to break together.

Broken forearms are often caused by an impact injury, such as from a fall (as when a child uses his outstretched arm to break a fall) or a direct blow. They are the most common fractures in children, especially if they’re active.
 

Broken forearm: Reviewed by Travis H. Matheney, MD, MLA
© Boston Children’s Hospital, 2012