Elbow and Forearm

The elbow and lower arm is a complex area which works in a high coordinated fashion to produce movements that enable us to both carry out day-to-day tasks, play our favourite sports and even drive a car.

The elbow joint is classed as a hinge joint and is formed between the distal (lower) end of the humerus in the upper arm and the proximal (upper) ends of the ulna and radius in the forearm. The elbow allows for the flexion and extension of the forearm relative to the upper arm. There is also an associated joint in the upper forearm called the superior radio-ulna joint enabling rotation of the forearm. Like other synovial joints, the ends of the bones making up the joint are covered in a thin smooth layer of articular cartlidge.

The joint capsule of the elbow provides strength and lubrication to the elbow. A network of ligaments surrounding the joint capsule helps the elbow joint maintain its stability and resist mechanical stresses. Some of the key muscles of the forearm attach near the elbow, making it a common site for injury (e.g. ‘Tennis Elbow’).