Proximal third
Near the Elbow
Proximal ulna fractures require careful assessment of the radial head. An ulna fracture with radial-head dislocation is a Monteggia injury.
Urgent orthopedic forearm-fracture care
Ulna Shaft Fracture Treatment & Surgery in Atlanta
Prompt evaluation for proximal, middle and distal ulna shaft fractures, including casting for selected stable injuries and plate fixation for displaced fractures.
The ulna helps maintain forearm length, alignment and stability.
A displaced ulna fracture can disturb forearm rotation and may be associated with injury at the elbow or wrist. Early orthopedic evaluation is important.
Urgent fracture evaluation
Forearm alignment assessment
Casting when stable
Plate fixation when displaced
Understanding the injury
What Is an Ulna Shaft Fracture?
The ulna is the straighter forearm bone that runs from the elbow to the small-finger side of the wrist.
The Ulna Is a Structural Reference for the Forearm
The radius rotates around the ulna as the palm turns down and up. The ulna must maintain the correct length and alignment so both bones can work together normally.
Direct blows can cause an isolated ulna or “nightstick” fracture. Falls, twisting injuries and higher-energy trauma may produce more displacement or associated injuries.
What We Evaluate
- Fracture displacement and angulation
- Forearm length and alignment
- Elbow and radial-head alignment
- Wrist and distal radioulnar stability
- Open wounds or soft-tissue injury
- Nerve and blood-vessel function
Forearm Rotation Depends on Both Bones
The ulna does not rotate around the radius, but it provides the stable framework around which the radius moves. If the ulna heals shortened, angled or rotated, pronation and supination may become painful or restricted.
Fracture location
Ulna Shaft Fractures May Occur at Three General Levels
Middle third
Central Ulna Shaft
Midshaft injuries include isolated nightstick fractures and more unstable displaced patterns.
Distal third
Near the Wrist
Distal fractures require evaluation of wrist alignment and the distal radioulnar joint.
!
Do Not Miss a Monteggia Injury
A proximal ulna fracture may be associated with dislocation of the radial head at the elbow. The elbow must be examined and included on imaging because restoring ulna length and alignment is essential to restoring radial-head position.
Treatment options
Stable Fractures May Be Casted—Displaced Fractures Often Need Fixation
Selected isolated fractures
Cast or Brace Treatment
A closed, isolated and minimally displaced ulna fracture may be treated without surgery using a cast or functional brace and close follow-up X-rays.
The fracture must remain acceptably aligned as swelling changes and motion begins.
Displaced or unstable fractures
Plate and Screw Fixation
ORIF restores ulna length, rotation and alignment and stabilizes the bone with a plate and screws.
Surgery is strongly considered for displaced fractures, open injuries, unstable patterns, Monteggia injuries or fractures that shift during nonsurgical treatment.
The Goal Is a Straight, Stable Forearm With Normal Rotation
A healed ulna fracture can still cause weakness, limited rotation or abnormal elbow and wrist mechanics if it heals with significant angulation, shortening or rotation. Treatment is chosen to preserve the relationship between the radius, ulna, wrist and elbow.
Recovery
Protect the Fracture While Restoring Wrist, Elbow and Forearm Motion
Early phase
Control Swelling
Protect the arm in the prescribed splint, cast or postoperative dressing and maintain finger motion.
As stability allows
Restore Rotation
Elbow, wrist and forearm motion progress according to fracture stability and fixation strength.
Later recovery
Rebuild Strength
Lifting, gripping and resistance activities return after dependable fracture healing.
Local orthopedic forearm care
Ulna Shaft Fracture Treatment Serving Atlanta and the East Metro Region
Atlanta Bone and Joint Specialists provides urgent orthopedic evaluation, casting and surgical fixation for ulna shaft and forearm fractures.
Atlanta
Decatur
Snellville
Loganville
Fulton County
DeKalb County
Gwinnett County
Walton County
Tell our scheduling team that you have a confirmed or suspected ulna fracture. Bring your imaging disc, radiology report and emergency-room or urgent-care paperwork. We make every reasonable effort to evaluate acute fractures quickly.
Ulna shaft fracture FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Does every ulna shaft fracture require surgery?
No. Selected isolated, closed and minimally displaced fractures may be treated in a cast or brace with close follow-up. Displaced, unstable or associated injuries are more likely to need surgery.
What is a nightstick fracture?
A nightstick fracture is an isolated ulna shaft fracture commonly caused by a direct blow to the forearm.
What is a Monteggia fracture-dislocation?
A Monteggia injury combines a proximal ulna fracture with dislocation of the radial head at the elbow.
Why are plates commonly used?
Plate fixation allows direct restoration of ulna length, rotation and alignment and provides stable fixation for controlled forearm motion.
Can an ulna fracture affect forearm rotation?
Yes. Significant angulation, shortening or rotation can disturb the relationship between the radius and ulna and reduce pronation and supination.
Have an Ulna Shaft Fracture? Get Early Orthopedic Evaluation
Call Atlanta Bone and Joint Specialists for prompt assessment of forearm alignment, elbow and wrist stability, and the need for casting or plate fixation.
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.