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Elbow

The elbow refers to the joint that links the upper arm and the forearm. Similar to other joints in the body, the elbow makes up the skeletal system and consists of cartilage, ligaments, muscles, nerves, and blood vessels.

If you experience elbow pain or difficulty using your arm, consult a healthcare provider. They can help determine the cause and recommend treatments to help restore function and ease discomfort.

Functions of the Elbow

The elbow allows your arm to bend and move in multiple directions. Its main functions include:

  • Extension: Stretching and straightening your arm to reach out for something.
  • Flexion: Bending the lower arm toward the body.
  • Supination: Turning your palm upward.
  • Pronation: Rotating your palm downward.

Anatomy

The elbow joint is located in the centre of the arm, where the upper arm and forearm connect. It allows the arm to bend and rotate. Joints are classified according to their composition (what they are composed of) and function (their movement).

The elbow is a synovial joint, meaning it has a cavity where one bone fits into another, allowing for smooth movement. The ends of the bones are covered with slippery hyaline cartilage and a synovial membrane filled with fluid cushions that lubricate the joint to lessen friction.

When it comes to functionality, the elbow serves as both a hinge joint and a pivot joint (also called a trochoginglymus joint). The hinge joint allows the arm to bend and straighten, similar to a door hinge. On the other hand, a pivot joint enables the forearm to rotate, allowing the palm to turn up or down without moving out of place.

Structure of the Elbow Joint

The elbow joint is composed of the following:

Bones:

Three bones that form the elbow joint include:

  • Humerus – The upper arm bone.
  • Ulna – The longer bone in the forearm.
  • Radius – The shorter bone in the forearm.

Cartilage:

A cartilage is a solid, flexible tissue protecting joints by acting as a shock absorber. The hyaline cartilage (also called articular cartilage) is the most common type in the body that lines the elbow. This smooth, slippery surface allows the bones of the elbow—humerus, ulna, and radius—to glide past each other with minimal friction.

Ligaments:

Ligaments are tough, cord-like structures linking bones and providing stability. The three primary ligaments in the elbow are:

  • Medial collateral ligament – Connects the inner edge of the humerus to the ulna.
  • Lateral collateral ligament – Connects the outer edge of the humerus to the ulna.
  • Annular ligament – Wraps around the radius top or head, securing it to the ulna and humerus.

Muscles:

These are soft tissues composed of stretchy fibres that contract (flex) so as to generate movement. The muscles connected to the bones in your arm enable elbow motion. The muscles responsible for flexion allow you to bend your lower arm inward toward your body. These include the biceps, brachialis, and brachioradialis.

Two extensor muscles that allow you to extend your lower arm outward, further from the body, are the triceps and anconeus.

Muscles regulating supination (turning the palm upward) include the supinator and biceps.

Pronator muscles, which enable you to rotate your palm downward, include pronator teres, pronator quadratus, and brachioradialis.

Nerves:

Nerves act as communication pathways, transmitting signals between the brain and the body. The main nerves responsible for sensation and movement in the elbow include:

  • Radial nerve
  • Median nerve
  • Ulnar nerve
  • Musculocutaneous nerve

Blood vessels:

Blood vessels are pathways that transport blood all over the body, forming a continuous loop that starts and ends at the heart. Three main arteries supplying blood to and from the elbow are:

  • Radial artery
  • Ulnar artery
  • Brachial artery

Common Elbow Issues and Conditions

The elbow is prone to injuries, wear and tear, or medical conditions impacting bones and connective tissues. Common issues include:

  • Arthritis
  • Elbow (olecranon) bursitis
  • Tendinitis
  • Nursemaid’s elbow

Sports-related injuries are also common, including:

  • Sprains
  • Golfer’s elbow (medial epicondylitis)
  • Tennis elbow (lateral epicondylitis)
  • Dislocated elbow
  • Elbow fractures (broken elbow)

Symptoms of an Elbow Damage

The symptoms vary depending on the specific condition but may consist of:

  • Pain, mainly when bending or moving the arm
  • Stiffness
  • Swelling and inflammation
  • Instability, making the elbow feel weak or unsteady
  • Discolouration, bruising, or redness
  • Warmth or a sensation of heat

Diagnostic Tests for Elbow Issues

If you experience elbow pain or injury, a healthcare provider may recommend diagnostic tests such as:

  • X-rays
  • Ultrasound
  • MRI scans
  • CT scans
  • Blood tests
  • Joint aspiration

Common Elbow Treatments

The treatment one requires usually depends on the type of injury or condition affecting your elbow. Some cases can be managed with at-home care, while others may require medical intervention. You might have to wear a brace, sling, or cast for support. If surgery is necessary, a minimally invasive elbow arthroscopy is performed. The GP or surgeon will determine the best treatment plan and guide you through the process.

Caring for Your Elbows

If you experience elbow pain or persistent symptoms lasting over a few days, consult a healthcare provider. For minor discomfort, you can manage symptoms at home using the RICE method:

  • Rest: Refrain from activities that triggered the injury and give your elbow time to heal.
  • Ice: Apply an ice pack wrapped in a thin towel for 15 minutes at a time, several times a day.
  • Compression: Use an elastic bandage to reduce swelling and provide support.
  • Elevation: Keep your elbow elevated over heart level whenever possible to minimise swelling.

Avoid playing sports or engaging in intense physical activity until a healthcare provider confirms it’s safe to do so. Proper care and rest can help prevent further strain and promote healing.

Conclusion

Your elbow plays a crucial role in arm movement and daily activities. Keeping it healthy is essential for maintaining flexibility, strength, and overall mobility. So, if you’re experiencing pain, stiffness, or any discomfort in your elbow, seeking medical attention can help prevent further complications.

Book your appointment now for further assessment and treatment to help you resume your normal routine.