Forearm Pain? Why Your Radius Is Aching + Medically Approved Next Steps

Forearm pain can make simple tasks—turning a doorknob, lifting groceries, typing—suddenly uncomfortable. If the pain feels like it's coming from the thumb-side of your forearm, the issue may involve your radius, one of the two long bones in your lower arm.

Understanding what the radius does, why it hurts, and what to do next can help you act quickly and wisely—without unnecessary panic.

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What Is the Radius?

The radius is one of the two bones in your forearm. It runs from your elbow to your wrist on the thumb side of your arm. The other bone is called the ulna.

The radius:

• Helps you rotate your forearm (like turning a key or opening a jar)
• Transfers force from your hand to your elbow
• Plays a major role in wrist stability
• Is commonly injured in falls

Because it is heavily involved in everyday movement, the radius is vulnerable to strain, inflammation, and fractures.

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Common Causes of Radius Pain

Pain in the radius can range from mild soreness to sharp, severe pain. Here are the most common causes.

1. Distal Radius Fracture (Wrist-End Fracture)

This is one of the most common bone fractures, especially after:

• Falling onto an outstretched hand
• Sports injuries
• Car accidents
• Slips on ice
• Osteoporosis-related falls in older adults

Symptoms may include:

• Sudden, severe pain
• Swelling around the wrist
• Bruising
• Visible deformity
• Difficulty moving the wrist
• Weak grip strength

If you recently fell and your wrist hurts, you can use Ubie's free AI-powered Distal Radius Fracture symptom checker to help assess your symptoms and understand whether you should seek immediate medical attention.

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2. Radius Stress Fracture

Unlike a sudden break, a stress fracture develops over time due to repeated strain. This is more common in:

• Gymnasts
• Weightlifters
• Racquet sport athletes
• People who suddenly increase activity levels

Symptoms often include:

• Gradual pain that worsens with activity
• Tenderness along the bone
• Mild swelling

Stress fractures require medical evaluation, as continuing activity can worsen the injury.

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3. Muscle or Tendon Overuse

Not all radius pain is a bone issue. Often, surrounding muscles and tendons are involved.

Common causes:

• Repetitive typing or mouse use
• Manual labor
• Racquet sports
• Lifting heavy objects

Conditions like tendinitis or forearm strain can cause aching that feels like it's "in the bone," even though the bone itself is fine.

Signs include:

• Dull ache
• Pain with gripping
• Stiffness
• Mild swelling

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4. Elbow Conditions Affecting the Radius

The top of the radius connects to the elbow joint. Conditions like:

• Radial head fractures
• Tennis elbow (lateral epicondylitis)
• Inflammatory arthritis

can cause pain that radiates down the forearm.

If pain increases when rotating your forearm or straightening your elbow, the problem may be higher up.

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5. Arthritis at the Wrist

The radius forms part of the wrist joint. Arthritis in this joint can cause:

• Stiffness
• Swelling
• Deep aching pain
• Reduced range of motion
• Pain that worsens with use

This is more common with aging, previous injuries, or autoimmune conditions.

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When Radius Pain Is an Emergency

Most forearm pain is not life-threatening. However, some symptoms require urgent medical care.

Seek immediate medical attention if you have:

• A visible bone deformity
• Numbness or tingling in the hand
• Pale or cold fingers
• Severe swelling
• Inability to move your wrist or fingers
• Open wounds with exposed bone

These signs may indicate a serious fracture or compromised blood flow.

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How Doctors Diagnose Radius Problems

If you visit a doctor for radius pain, they may:

• Ask about recent falls or injuries
• Examine swelling and range of motion
• Check grip strength
• Test nerve function
• Order imaging such as X-rays

X-rays are typically the first test to confirm a fracture. In some cases, CT or MRI scans may be used for more detail.

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Medically Approved Next Steps

What you should do depends on your symptoms.

If You Recently Fell

• Stop using the arm.
• Apply ice for 15–20 minutes at a time.
• Keep the wrist elevated.
• Avoid wrapping too tightly.
• Seek medical evaluation promptly.

Do not "wait it out" if you suspect a fracture. Early treatment improves healing and reduces complications.

You can also check your symptoms using Ubie's Distal Radius Fracture symptom checker—a free AI tool that helps you understand your condition and decide on the right next steps before your appointment.

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If Pain Is Gradual and Activity-Related

Try the R.I.C.E. method:

• Rest: Reduce aggravating activities.
• Ice: 15–20 minutes after activity.
• Compression: Light supportive wrap (not too tight).
• Elevation: Keep the arm raised when possible.

Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications may help, but check with a healthcare provider first—especially if you have stomach, heart, or kidney conditions.

If pain lasts more than 1–2 weeks or worsens, schedule a medical visit.

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If You Have Ongoing Wrist Stiffness or Arthritis

• Use ergonomic tools.
• Take frequent breaks from repetitive tasks.
• Consider wrist supports during heavy activity.
• Ask your doctor about physical therapy.

Physical therapy can improve mobility and reduce strain on the radius and surrounding joints.

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Healing Time for Radius Injuries

Healing depends on the cause.

• Mild strain: 1–3 weeks
• Stress fracture: 6–8 weeks
• Distal radius fracture: 6–12 weeks (sometimes longer in older adults)

Some fractures require casting. Others may need surgery if the bone is displaced.

Following medical advice closely improves outcomes and reduces the risk of long-term stiffness.

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Preventing Future Radius Pain

You can reduce your risk by:

• Strengthening forearm muscles
• Using proper lifting technique
• Wearing protective gear during sports
• Improving balance to prevent falls
• Treating osteoporosis if present
• Taking breaks from repetitive tasks

Bone health matters. Adequate calcium, vitamin D, and weight-bearing exercise support a strong radius and overall skeletal system.

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The Bottom Line

Radius pain is common and often manageable—but it should not be ignored.

It may be caused by:

• A distal radius fracture
• A stress fracture
• Tendon inflammation
• Overuse
• Arthritis
• Elbow-related issues

If you recently fell or have swelling and difficulty moving your wrist, take it seriously. Consider using a free, online symptom check for Distal Radius Fracture and follow up with a healthcare provider.

Even if your pain seems mild, speak to a doctor if:

• Pain persists beyond two weeks
• Symptoms worsen
• You notice numbness or weakness
• You suspect a fracture

Prompt medical care protects your long-term mobility and function.

Your forearm—and your radius—play a vital role in daily life. If something doesn't feel right, it's worth getting checked.

If you are experiencing severe symptoms, sudden deformity, or signs of compromised circulation, seek urgent medical care immediately and speak to a doctor without delay.