Abstract
A sound knowledge of the elbow anatomy and biomechanics is critical to understanding the pathology of various elbow disorders and instigating appropriate management. The elbow joint is a trochoginglymoid joint: that is, it has flexion-extension [ginglymoid] motion at the ulnohumeral and radiocapitellar articulations and pronation and supination [trochoid] motion at the proximal radioulnar joint. Stability of the elbow joint is achieved through static and dynamic components. The aim of this article is to concisely describe the anatomy and biomechanics of the elbow joint relevant to the practice of trauma and orthopaedic surgeons.
Highlights
A mobile and stable elbow joint is important for daily work and recreational and sporting activities
The medial and lateral collateral ligaments and the elbow joint capsule are the passive soft tissue stabilizers of the elbow joint. An understanding of their role in elbow pathoanatomy and kinematics has improved in recent years
The Lateral Collateral Ligament (LCL) complex consists of the lateral ulnar collateral ligament, the radial collateral ligament, the annular ligament and the accessory collateral ligament
Summary
A mobile and stable elbow joint is important for daily work and recreational and sporting activities. Acting as the fulcrum of the forearm lever, the elbow has an important role in positioning the hand for its various functions. Elbow flexion, coupled with supination, is used to bring the hand to the body and face to eat, dress and perform personal hygiene, as well as to pull or carry objects. Loss of elbow function can significantly impair an individual’s ability to perform even simple daily activities. Static and dynamic constraints provide stability to the elbow joint. Muscles crossing the elbow joint that provide joint compressive forces provide Dynamic stability. There is a good balance between mobility and stability. Anatomy of the elbow joint will be discussed in terms of osteology, capsuloligamentous structures, and muscles. Biomechanics section will concisely explain the concepts around motion and stability
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