What bones form the elbow joint?

The elbow joint is formed by the articulation of three bones: the humerus (lower end), the ulna (upper end), and the radius (upper end). Specifically, it includes the humero-ulnar and humero-radial articulations, along with the proximal radio-ulnar joint.

What are the main ligaments of the elbow joint?

The elbow joint is stabilized by three key ligaments: the Capsular Ligament (a fibrous capsule), the Ulnar Collateral Ligament (triangular with multiple bands), and the Radial Collateral Ligament (from lateral epicondyle to annular ligament).

What movements occur at the elbow joint?

The elbow joint primarily allows flexion and extension. Flexion is performed by muscles like the brachialis and biceps brachii, while extension is carried out by the triceps and anconeus, with a range of approximately 0–140°.

What is the carrying angle of the elbow?

The carrying angle is a lateral deviation of the extended and supinated forearm, typically 5°–15° (greater in females). It helps avoid contact with the trunk when carrying loads and disappears during pronation and full flexion.

What are common clinical conditions affecting the elbow?

Common elbow conditions include tennis elbow (lateral epicondylitis), golfer's elbow (medial epicondylitis), nursemaid’s elbow (radial head subluxation in children), student’s elbow (olecranon bursitis), and nerve entrapments such as ulnar nerve issues.

What structures are related to the elbow joint?

The elbow joint is surrounded by key structures: anteriorly (e.g., brachialis, brachial artery), posteriorly (e.g., triceps), medially (e.g., ulnar nerve), and laterally (e.g., supinator).

How is the elbow joint supplied with blood and nerves?

Blood supply comes from an arterial anastomosis around the elbow involving branches of the brachial, radial, and ulnar arteries. Nerve supply includes the radial, musculocutaneous, median, and ulnar nerves.

Elbow Joint Anatomy – Ligaments, Movements & Clinicals

❓ Frequently Asked Questions