Your elbow is a sophisticated hinge joint that allows you to bend and straighten your arm, as well as rotate your forearm. This complex joint connects three bones and enables precise movements essential for daily activities from eating to throwing.

Understanding elbow anatomy helps explain conditions ranging from tennis elbow to fractures. Dr. Albersheim provides expert care for elbow injuries, utilizing both arthroscopic techniques and traditional surgical approaches when needed.

Three Bones, One Joint

The elbow joint connects three bones: the humerus (upper arm bone), radius, and ulna (forearm bones). The humerus forms the upper part of the joint, while the radius and ulna articulate with it to create a stable hinge that allows flexion and extension.

The radius also rotates around the ulna, enabling you to turn your palm up (supination) or down (pronation). This rotation is crucial for activities like turning a doorknob or using a screwdriver.

Cartilage and Smooth Movement

Articular cartilage covers the ends of all three bones, providing a smooth, low-friction surface for movement. This specialized tissue allows your elbow to bend and straighten thousands of times daily without pain or damage in healthy joints.

Stabilizing Ligaments

The ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) on the inner elbow and the lateral collateral ligament (LCL) on the outer side provide crucial stability. The UCL is particularly important for throwing athletes and can tear from repetitive overhead motions.

These ligaments prevent the elbow from bending sideways and keep the bones properly aligned during movement. UCL tears, commonly called "Tommy John injuries," often require surgical reconstruction in athletes.

Common Tendon Issues

Multiple tendons attach muscles to the elbow, with the most commonly injured being the extensor tendons on the outside (lateral epicondyle) and flexor tendons on the inside (medial epicondyle). Overuse of these tendons leads to conditions known as tennis elbow and golfer's elbow.

Muscle Groups

The biceps and brachialis muscles flex (bend) the elbow, while the triceps extends (straightens) it. Forearm muscles that attach near the elbow control wrist and finger movements. Strong, balanced muscles help protect the elbow from injury and support proper joint mechanics.