Head of Radius

Author: Dr Peter de Souza
Last modified: 13 December 2020

Head of Radius

The structure indicated is the head of the radius.

The proximal end of the radius consists of the following features

  • Head
  • Neck
  • Radial tuberosity

The head of the radius articulates with the capitulum of the humerus (humeroradial joint) which is one of three articulations at the elbow joint. The other two articulations at the elbow joint are the articulations between the trochlea notch of the ulna and the trochlea of the humerus, and the joint between the radial head and the radial notch of the ulna – the proximal radio-ulnar joint.

The radial head is encapsulated by the annular ligament which holds it in position against the radial notch of the ulna and allows it to slide and pivot to pronate and supinate the forearm.

Learn more about the anatomy of the radius in this tutorial.