Radial club hand is a rare upper limb condition that affects the way your child’s hand, wrist and arm grow and work. It happens when the radius - the bone on the thumb side of the forearm - doesn’t form completely during pregnancy. This gives the hand a club-shaped appearance.
At Banner Children’s, our specialists are experienced in diagnosing and treating radial club hand. We offer comprehensive care that supports your child’s growth, movement and development.
Radial club hand is a congenital hand difference. That means it happens before birth. This causes the hand and wrist in the forearm to bend toward the thumb side. This bend creates a club or J-shaped appearance.
There are two bones in the forearm: the ulna and the radius. The ulna is on the outer side of the arm. The radius is on the inner side of the arm. Radial club hand happens when the radius doesn’t form properly. Because the radius supports muscles, blood vessels and nerves, its absence can impact the overall structure and function of the arm.
This hand difference can affect one or both arms. In many cases, the thumb is also small, misshapen or missing. The forearm may be shorter than usual and muscles and nerves in the arm can also be underdeveloped. It may also affect elbow movement.
Club hand is also known as radial longitudinal deficiency, radius deficiency or radial dysplasia.
There are four types of radial club hand:
In most cases, the exact cause of radial club hand is unknown. There is no known link between this condition and anything you did or didn’t do during pregnancy. It’s a part of the baby’s development. It usually happens randomly during early pregnancy as the baby’s bones and tissues form.
Sometimes, it can be part of a genetic syndrome or linked to other health issues, such as heart or kidney problems or other limb differences like club foot. Some genetic conditions linked to radial club hand include:
Your child’s health care team may recommend genetic testing or other tests for related conditions.
You may notice signs of radial club hand at birth or during a prenatal ultrasound.
Common signs include:
Radial club hand is often found during a routine prenatal ultrasound. If not seen before birth, it is diagnosed shortly after a baby is born.
To understand your child’s condition, your health care team may recommend:
These tests help your child’s care team plan the best care for your child. Your child may be referred to a pediatric orthopedic or hand specialist for further evaluation and treatment.
Treatment for radial club hand focuses on improving the position, function and appearance of the hand and arm. The type of treatment depends on how severe the condition is and how it affects your child’s ability to move and use their hand.
In mild cases, surgery may not be needed. Early treatment often begins shortly after birth and may include:
Children with more severe forms of radial club hand may need one or more surgeries as they grow. Surgery is usually done when the child is between 6 and 12 months old, but this can vary depending on their specific needs.
Common procedures include:
With early care and support, many children with radial club hand grow up to use their hands and arms well. Some children may have visible differences or movement limitations, but they can still participate in school, sports and daily life.
After surgery or therapy, your child may need:
We know caring for a child with a limb difference can bring many emotions. At Banner Children’s, we support you every step of the way. Our care team includes pediatric orthopedic specialists, surgeons, therapists and care coordinators who work together to provide expert care.
We also connect you with:
Our team works closely with you to ensure your child receives high-quality, compassionate care. We understand the challenges that come with radial club hand and we’re committed to helping your child thrive.
If your child has been diagnosed with radial club hand or you notice signs that concern you, don’t wait to get help. Early treatment can make a difference in your child’s growth and development.
Schedule an appointment with a Banner Children’s specialist today.
We’re here to answer your questions, explain your options and help your child live their healthiest life.