Proximal third
Closer to the Elbow
Proximal injuries require careful evaluation of the radial head, proximal radioulnar joint and nearby nerve structures.
Urgent orthopedic forearm-fracture care
Both-Bone Forearm Fracture Treatment & Surgery in Atlanta
Prompt evaluation and surgical treatment for combined radius and ulna shaft fractures, with careful restoration of forearm length, alignment, radial bow and rotation.
Most displaced adult both-bone forearm fractures require surgery.
The radius and ulna function together as one rotational unit. Both bones must heal with the correct length and alignment to preserve pronation, supination and normal wrist–elbow mechanics.
Urgent fracture evaluation
Restore radial bow
Protect forearm rotation
Dual-plate fixation expertise
Why this fracture matters
The Radius and Ulna Must Heal as a Coordinated Unit
The forearm is not simply two parallel bones. The radius rotates around the ulna and links motion at the wrist, elbow and both radioulnar joints.
Both Bones Control Forearm Kinematics
The radius must regain its normal length, rotation and radial bow. The ulna must regain its correct length and straight alignment.
If either bone heals shortened, angled or rotated, the relationship between the two bones can be lost, producing limited pronation–supination, weakness or abnormal wrist and elbow loading.
What Must Be Restored
- Normal radius and ulna length
- Correct rotational alignment
- The natural radial bow
- Proper spacing between both bones
- Stable wrist and elbow relationships
- Forearm pronation and supination
Bone Healing Alone Is Not Enough
A both-bone forearm fracture can unite and still leave poor function if the radius or ulna heals in the wrong position. The treatment goal is to restore the anatomy closely enough for the radius to rotate smoothly around the ulna.
Fracture location
Both-Bone Forearm Fractures May Occur at Different Levels
The radius and ulna fractures may occur in the proximal, middle or distal forearm and are not always at the same exact level.
Middle third
Central Forearm
Midshaft fractures can severely disturb radial bow, spacing between the bones and forearm rotation.
Distal third
Closer to the Wrist
Distal fractures require careful assessment of the distal radioulnar joint and overall wrist alignment.
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Associated Wrist and Elbow Injuries Must Be Identified
Imaging should include the wrist and elbow. The surgeon must confirm that the radial head, proximal radioulnar joint and distal radioulnar joint remain aligned after the forearm bones are restored.
Treatment options
Surgery Is Strongly Recommended for Most Displaced Adult Injuries
Accurate restoration of both bones is usually required to protect forearm rotation and long-term function.
Standard treatment
Plate and Screw Fixation of Both Bones
ORIF allows the surgeon to restore the ulna first as a stable reference and then reconstruct the radius with the correct length, rotation and radial bow.
Separate plates and screws are commonly used to stabilize each bone and permit controlled wrist, elbow and forearm motion during healing.
Rare selected cases
Nonsurgical Treatment
A truly nondisplaced, stable injury may occasionally be treated in a cast with very close follow-up.
For displaced adult both-bone fractures, casting alone is generally much less predictable because loss of length, bow or rotational alignment can significantly reduce function.
Why Accurate Fixation Is So Important
Even modest malalignment can alter the mechanics of both radioulnar joints. Restoring the radius and ulna together provides the best chance of regaining smooth pronation–supination and coordinated wrist and elbow use.
Recovery
Early Controlled Motion Helps Restore Forearm Function
Recovery focuses on bone healing while limiting stiffness at the wrist, elbow and forearm.
Early phase
Protect the Fixation
Control swelling, protect the incisions or splint and maintain finger motion as directed.
As stability allows
Restore Rotation
Elbow motion, wrist motion and pronation–supination progress according to fixation strength and the surgeon’s plan.
Later recovery
Rebuild Strength
Lifting, gripping and resistance activities return after both bones show dependable healing.
Local orthopedic forearm care
Both-Bone Forearm Fracture Surgery Serving Atlanta and the East Metro Region
Atlanta Bone and Joint Specialists provides urgent evaluation and operative treatment for combined radius and ulna shaft fractures.
Atlanta
Decatur
Snellville
Loganville
Fulton County
DeKalb County
Gwinnett County
Walton County
Tell our scheduling team that you have a confirmed or suspected both-bone forearm fracture. Bring your imaging disc, radiology report and emergency-room paperwork. We make every reasonable effort to evaluate acute fractures quickly.
Both-bone forearm fracture FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do both-bone forearm fractures usually require surgery?
Both bones must heal with the correct length, rotation and alignment. Plate fixation provides the most reliable way to restore radial bow and preserve forearm rotation in displaced adult fractures.
Why is the radial bow important?
The natural curve of the radius allows it to rotate around the ulna. Flattening or shifting that curve can reduce pronation and supination.
Are both bones fixed?
In most displaced adult both-bone forearm fractures, both the radius and ulna are restored and stabilized, commonly with separate plates and screws.
Can a both-bone forearm fracture be treated in a cast?
Rare stable and nondisplaced injuries may be treated in a cast with close follow-up, but displaced adult fractures are generally treated surgically because loss of alignment can permanently reduce function.
Why are the wrist and elbow checked?
The radius and ulna connect both joints. Associated instability at the proximal or distal radioulnar joint must be identified and corrected.
Can the bones heal but forearm rotation remain limited?
Yes. If either bone heals shortened, angled, rotated or with the wrong radial bow, pronation and supination may remain restricted even though the fractures unite.
Have a Radius and Ulna Fracture? Protect Forearm Rotation With Early Evaluation
Call Atlanta Bone and Joint Specialists for prompt assessment of forearm alignment, radial bow, wrist and elbow stability, and the need for plate fixation of both bones.
This page provides general educational information and does not replace an examination, imaging review or individualized medical advice. Seek emergency care for an open wound, severe deformity, rapidly worsening numbness, a cold or pale hand, uncontrolled pain or major trauma.