The Distal Radioulnar Joint (DRUJ) is a diarthodial trochoid joint that allows rotation
and translation of the radius in relation to the ulna. In pronation, the radius translates
volarly and proximally in relation to the ulna, whereas the ulna translates dorsally
and distally in relation to the radius. The area of contact between the radius and
the ulna decreases from 60% to 10% when moving from neutral to extreme supination
and pronation because of the lack of bony congruency due to the unique radii and curvature
of the radial sigmoid notch and the ulnar head.
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The lack of bony congruency creates a highly mobile DRUJ in comparison to the Proximal
Radioulnar Joint.
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There are six soft tissue structures that augment the DRUJ stability. Those six soft
tissue structures are the Triangular Fibrocartilage Complex (TFCC); ulnocarpal ligaments:
Ulnolunate, Ulnotriquetal, and Ulnocapitate; the Pronator Quadratus; the Extensor
Carpi Ulnaris tendon sheath; the Interosseous Membrane; and the Joint Capsule.
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References
- Soft tissue anatomy and relationships about the distal ulna.Hand Clin. 1998; 14: 165-176
- The role of the distal radioulnar ligaments, interosseous membrane, and joint capsule in distal radioulnar joint stability.J Hand Surg [Am]. 2000; 25A: 341-351
- Ulnar wrist pain and impairment: a therapist's algorithmic approach to the triangular fibrocartilage complex.in: Mackin E.J. Callahan A.D. Skirven T.M. Rehabilitation of the Hand and Upper Extremity. 5th ed. Mosby, St. Louis, MO2002: 1156-1170
- Rehabilitation techniques for ligament injuries of the wrist.Hand Clin. 1992; 8: 669-679
Article info
Footnotes
This article was adapted from a Clinical Poster Presentation at the Atlanta 2006 ASHT National Conference. It was awarded the best clinical poster presentation.
Identification
Copyright
© 2007 Hanley & Belfus. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.
