Landmark RHE

The radial head is the proximal epiphysis of the bone (see Figs 11.1 & 11.2). Several points need to be palpated to find the center of the radial head, which is seen as a cylinder (this is a slight simplification of the real shape of the head). There are at least three points to locate.

The palpator faces the sitting subject, whose forearm is extended and in neutral position.

First observe the lateral aspect of the elbow to find the mass of both the brachioradialis muscle and the extensor carpi radialis longus muscle (between the dotted orange lines), and the olecranon (UOL; see p. 72).

The radial head is in a hollow between UOL and the brachioradialis muscle (green dotted arrow).

Then palpate the lateral side of the forearm.

Pitch the muscular mass described in (A) between the first and second fingers.

Put the third finger (dotted blue arrow) next to the second to find the radial head. Keep your fingers on this location and flex the subject’s elbow passively.

Then move your second finger to the spot previously located with the third finger.

Put the first and third fingers on the anterior and posterior aspects of the head respectively.

Select the points located by your three first fingers.

Manual palpation tip

• A small motion of prono-supination of the subject’s forearm allows displacement of the head to be felt under the third finger pulp (see for finger position).

Landmark RSP

Tuberosity located on the lateral aspect of the distal epiphysis (see Figs 11.1 & 11.2).

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