A low profile dorsal plate for internal fixation of a radius fracture can comprise a single longitudinal portion having a distal end, and a transverse portion fixed across the distal end at an angle of about 15° to about 30° from perpendicular with respect to the longitudinal portion. The transverse portion can also have a z-axis curvature, or can be flexible to form a z-axis curvature, where the z-axis curvature corresponds to a dorsal contour of a distal radius. Also included is a first plurality of screw holes aligned within the longitudinal portion and a second plurality of screw holes aligned within the transverse portion.