Abstract: The complex anatomy of the distal radioulnar joint is the basis for its forearm rotation function and power transmission.It is important to research the anatomical structure and biomechanical mechanism of the distal radioulnar joint to understand the mechanism of the instability of the distal radioulnar joint.The instability of the distal radioulnar joint can be divided into primary instability，post-traumatic or postoperative instability.The combination of medical history，physical examination and imaging findings on the classification of instability of the distal radioulnar joint is helpful for the diagnosis and treatment of the disease.The treatments for the instability of the distal radioulnar joint are conservative treatment and surgical treatment.

Key words: distal radioulnar joint, instability, classification, treatment