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Elbow

The elbow is a complex joint that connects the upper arm to the forearm and allows the arm to bend, extend, and rotate.

Contents

Quick version

What is the elbow?

The elbow is a hinge joint that connects the upper arm bone (humerus) with the forearm bones (radius and ulna). The joint consists of three separate joints enclosed in a joint capsule and allows for both flexion/extension and some rotation of the forearm. The elbow is also surrounded by several tendons, ligaments and muscles that stabilize the joint and control movement.

Anatomy of the elbow

The joint consists of three parts: the humeroulnar, humeroradial and radioulnar joints. It is surrounded by a joint capsule, ligaments (including collateral ligaments), bursae (mucous sacs) and several muscle attachments. Nerves that pass nearby, such as the ulnar nerve, can cause symptoms when pinched.

Movement and function

The elbow allows you to both bend and extend the arm and rotate (supination and pronation). It is crucial for our daily activities such as carrying, writing and lifting.

Stress and injuries

The elbow is exposed to repetitive strain in everything from sports, crafts and computer work. This can lead to overuse injuries, inflammation or joint wear in the elbow. Injuries can also occur from falls or direct trauma.

Common conditions and diseases

Pain in the elbow can be due to tennis elbow, mouse elbow, bursitis, ligament injuries, osteoarthritis or pinched nerves. Overuse and misalignment are common causes.

Examination and diagnosis

Diagnosis is made using a physical examination, pain tests, sometimes ultrasound or . The doctor assesses mobility, swelling, pain spread, and nerve involvement to identify the cause.

Relevant symptoms

  • Pain when bending or extending the arm
  • Tenderness over the outside or inside of the elbow
  • Swelling or warmth around the joint
  • Numbness in the forearm or hand
  • Decreased strength in the hand or arm

Related conditions and diagnoses

  • Tennis elbow (lateral epicondylitis)
  • Golfer's elbow (medial epicondylitis)
  • Elbow bursitis
  • Ulnar compression
  • Osteoarthritis of the elbow joint

Questions and answers

What is called tennis elbow is an overuse injury to the extensor muscles at the elbow.

Elbow pain is often caused by overuse, inflammation of the tendons (epicondylitis), bursitis or nerve compression. Improper loading is a common cause.

Treatment for elbow pain may include rest, weight-bearing, physical therapy, anti-inflammatory medications, or sometimes injections, depending on the cause.

If the pain does not go away with self-care, or if it gets worse or causes numbness/weakness, you should see a doctor for an examination.

Yes, incorrect technique, too heavy a load or repetitive movements during training can cause overload or acute injury to the elbow.

Golfer's elbow is an inflammation of the tendons on the inside of the elbow. It is similar to tennis elbow but is on the opposite side and causes pain when bending.

To make a diagnosis, the doctor makes a clinical assessment of movement, areas of pain and function. Sometimes imaging tests such as MRI are needed to confirm the diagnosis.

Avoid repetitive strain, warm up before training, strengthen forearm muscles and adjust working postures to reduce strain.

The ulnar nerve is the best known and runs close to the surface of the inside of the elbow. Pinched nerve can cause numbness in the little and ring fingers.