Distal radioulnar joint

Distal radioulnar joint

[[File:|250|alt=Diagram of the distal radioulnar joint]]
Diagram of the distal radioulnar joint
Latin	articulatio radioulnaris distalis
Nerve	Anterior interosseous nerve, posterior interosseous nerve
System	Skeletal system

The distal radioulnar joint (DRUJ) is a synovial joint located in the forearm between the distal ends of the radius and ulna. It plays a crucial role in the pronation and supination of the forearm, allowing the hand to rotate.

Anatomy

The distal radioulnar joint is a pivot-type synovial joint. It is formed by the head of the ulna and the ulnar notch of the radius. The joint is enclosed by a fibrous capsule and is supported by several ligaments.

Articular Surfaces

The articular surfaces of the distal radioulnar joint include:

• The ulnar notch of the radius, which is a concave surface on the distal end of the radius.
• The head of the ulna, which is a convex surface that articulates with the ulnar notch.

Ligaments

The stability of the distal radioulnar joint is maintained by several ligaments:

• The triangular fibrocartilage complex (TFCC), which is a major stabilizer of the joint.
• The anterior and posterior radioulnar ligaments, which reinforce the joint capsule.

Blood Supply

The blood supply to the distal radioulnar joint is provided by the anterior interosseous artery and the posterior interosseous artery.

Nerve Supply

The joint is innervated by the anterior interosseous nerve and the posterior interosseous nerve.

Function

The primary function of the distal radioulnar joint is to allow the forearm to rotate, enabling the hand to turn palm up (supination) and palm down (pronation). This movement is essential for various daily activities, such as turning a doorknob or using a screwdriver.

Clinical Significance

Injuries

Injuries to the distal radioulnar joint can occur due to trauma, such as a fall on an outstretched hand. Common injuries include:

• Distal radioulnar joint dislocation
• Triangular fibrocartilage complex injury

Disorders

Disorders affecting the distal radioulnar joint include:

• Arthritis of the joint, which can lead to pain and limited motion.
• Ulnar impaction syndrome, where the ulna abuts the carpal bones, causing pain and degeneration.

Treatment

Treatment for distal radioulnar joint disorders may involve:

• Physical therapy to improve range of motion and strength.
• Surgical intervention in cases of severe injury or arthritis, such as joint reconstruction or arthroplasty.

See Also

• Proximal radioulnar joint
• Forearm
• Wrist joint

External Links

• [Link to a reputable medical website about the distal radioulnar joint]