Elbow

Elbow

The elbow is a complex hinge joint formed by the articulation of three bones: the humerus, radius, and ulna. It is a fundamental part of the human skeletal system and plays a crucial role in upper limb movement.

Anatomy

The elbow joint is where the long bone at the top of your arm, known as the humerus, meets the two bones in your forearm, known as the radius and ulna. It is one of the largest joints in the body and is surrounded by muscles, ligaments, and tendons that enable a wide range of movements.

Bones

• Humerus: The humerus is the long bone in the upper arm. It has two articulating surfaces that interact with the radius and ulna to form the elbow joint.
• Radius: The radius is one of the two bones in the forearm. It is located on the thumb side of the arm and rotates to allow the hand to turn palm up.
• Ulna: The ulna is the other bone in the forearm, located on the pinky side. It has a hook-like process, the olecranon, which forms the bony prominence of the elbow.

Ligaments and Tendons

The elbow joint is supported by several ligaments and tendons, including the annular ligament, the radial collateral ligament, the ulnar collateral ligament, and the quadrate ligament.

Function

The elbow joint allows for two basic movements: flexion and extension. Flexion occurs when the angle of the joint decreases, as in bending the elbow to bring the hand closer to the shoulder. Extension is the opposite movement, increasing the angle of the joint to straighten the arm.

Conditions and Disorders

There are many conditions and disorders that can affect the elbow, including tennis elbow, golfer's elbow, bursitis, arthritis, and fractures. These conditions can cause pain, swelling, stiffness, and limit the range of motion of the elbow.

Treatment

Treatment for elbow conditions and disorders depends on the specific diagnosis and may include rest, physical therapy, medication, and in some cases, surgery.

See Also

• Human skeletal system
• Joints
• Humerus
• Radius
• Ulna
• Ligaments
• Tendons

Elbow Resources
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