Hand Surgeon with Athens Orthopedic Clinic, Dr. Michael Shuler, explains Distal Radius Fractures. The radius is one of two forearm bones and is located on the thumb side. The part of the radius connected to the wrist joint is called the distal radius. When the radius breaks near the wrist, it is called a distal radius fracture. The break usually happens due to falling on an outstretched or flexed hand.