This injury is usually caused by a fall onto an outstretched hand. Occasionally it is caused by a direct blow.
The injury is associated with local tenderness over the distal forearm or specifically over the distal radius/ulna. Local swelling is usual. Visible deformity is often present; this is usually posterior angulation (apex anterior), but may be anterior angulation.
Check elbow for tenderness and range.
X-ray shows complete fractures and direction of displacement.