What is the forearm bone on the thumb side called?

The forearm bone on the thumb side is called the radius. Gray's Anatomy (1918) describes it as one of the two bones of the forearm, on the thumb side.

What it is

  • One of the two bones of the forearm, on the thumb side.
  • Its upper end is a small disc that rotates against the humerus and ulna.
  • Its lower end forms most of the wrist joint.

Where it is

  • Between the elbow and the wrist, on the thumb side of the forearm.
  • Rotates around the ulna during pronation and supination.
  • Its lower end articulates with the scaphoid and lunate of the wrist.

Source:

Last verified: 2026-07-18

  • Best Anatomy Answers is an educational reference about human anatomy. It is not medical advice — for any health concern, talk to a licensed medical professional.

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