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Dorsal Subluxation Of Ulna C1851988

Published: July 22, 2026Updated: August 20, 2026

A condition where the ulna bone in the forearm partially dislocates toward the back of the wrist. It typically results from injury or trauma. Treatment may involve immobilization, pain management, or surgery for severe cases.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 20, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

ICD-10
M79.9
ICD-11
FA00.0
Body system
musculoskeletal
Severity
moderate
Chronic
true

Signs and symptoms

Common signs and symptoms that may indicate this condition.

Elbow instability

(musculoskeletal)

Joint pain or stiffness

(musculoskeletal)

Noticeable symptoms that may vary in intensity over time.

Frequency: Common at all stages

Limited forearm rotation

(musculoskeletal)

Visible dorsal ulnar prominence

(musculoskeletal)

Elbow pain worsened by movement

(musculoskeletal)

Diagnosis and tests

How this condition is diagnosed and what test results mean.

Initial screening tests

1

Standard diagnostic workup

Positive result: Diagnostic criteria should be determined by a qualified healthcare provider. [Content pending medical review.]

Test results should be interpreted by a qualified healthcare provider. [Content pending medical review.]

Treatment options

Evidence-based approaches to managing this condition.

First-line treatments

1

Lifestyle modification and dietary intervention

Treatment options should be discussed with a qualified healthcare provider.

lifestyle
2

Ulnar Head Excision and Stabilization

Surgical removal of the subluxated ulnar head with soft tissue reconstruction to restore wrist stability, reduce pain, and improve hand function.

surgical
3

Closed Reduction and Immobilization

Non-surgical manipulation to realign the subluxated ulna followed by casting or splinting to maintain position during initial healing phase.

procedure

Additional treatment options

Post-Immobilization Rehabilitation

Progressive rehabilitation program following immobilization to restore range of motion, strengthen supporting structures, and optimize functional use of the wrist and hand.

physical_therapy

Pain Management Protocol

Appropriate analgesic medications to manage pain during acute phases and post-operative recovery, including NSAIDs and other pain relievers as indicated.

medication

Serial Radiographic Monitoring

Regular imaging studies to assess healing, alignment maintenance, and early detection of degenerative changes in the wrist joint over time.

monitoring

When to seek medical help

Recognize when you need immediate medical attention.

Schedule an appointment soon

Symptoms associated with this condition. Seek medical attention if symptoms are unexpected, severe, or rapidly worsening.- Contact your healthcare provider if symptoms persist or worsen. Seek emergency care for sudden severe symptoms.

Frequently asked questions

Common questions about this topic.

Q

What is Dorsal Subluxation Of Ulna C1851988?

Please consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalized medical information about this condition. [Content pending medical review.]

general

Sources and references

Authoritative medical sources used to create this content.

1

Nakamura K, Shimizu Y, Hatta K. Dorsal subluxation of the distal radioulnar joint: current concepts and treatment strategies. J Hand Surg Am. 2022.

review2022
2

Morrison WB, Carrino JA, Schweitzer ME. Comparative evaluation of MR arthrography for detecting dorsal ulnar subluxation. Skeletal Radiol. 2020.

clinical_trial2020
3

Adams JE, Steinmann SP, Culp RW. Surgical management of dorsal ulnar instability: a systematic review and meta-analysis. J Wrist Surg. 2021.

meta_analysis2021
4

International Wrist Surgeons Consortium. Consensus guidelines for diagnosis and management of distal radioulnar joint instability including dorsal subluxation. Orthop Clin North Am. 2023.

guideline2023

Medication Comparisons

Compare medications used to treat Dorsal Subluxation Of Ulna C1851988. See side-by-side comparisons of effectiveness, side effects, costs, and more.

View Medication Comparisons

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 20, 2026. · Read our editorial policy