The Elbow Joint - Podcast Version TeachMeAnatomy 0:00 / 0:00 1x 0.25x 0.5x 0.75x 1x 1.25x 1.5x 1.75x 2x The elbow joint connects the upper arm to the forearm. It is a hinge-type synovial joint, permitting flexion and extension of the forearm. In this article, we will review the anatomy of the elbow joint – including its articulations, movements, stabilising structures, and clinical relevance. Pro Feature - 3D Model You've Discovered a Pro Feature Access our 3D Model Library Explore, cut, dissect, annotate and manipulate our 3D models to visualise anatomy in a dynamic, interactive way. Learn More Structures of the Elbow Joint Articulating Surfaces The elbow joint comprises two articulations within a single joint capsule: Between the trochlear notch of the ulna and the trochlea of the humerus Between the head of the radius and the capitulum of the humerus Note: The proximal radioulnar joint shares the same capsule as the elbow but is usually described as a distinct articulation, as it permits pronation and supination rather than flexion and extension. By TeachMeSeries Ltd (2025) Fig 1Anterior and posterior views of the articulations of the elbow joint Joint Capsule and Bursae The joint capsule encloses the elbow joint and is strong and fibrous, providing stability while allowing motion. It is thickened medially and laterally to form the collateral ligaments – which stabilise the joint during flexion and extension. A bursa is a sac-like structure containing a small amount of synovial fluid. It functions to decrease friction between tendons, bone, and skin during movement. Several bursae are associated with the elbow: Intratendinous olecranon bursa – located within the triceps brachii tendon. Subtendinous olecranon bursa – lies between the olecranon and the triceps tendon, reducing friction during extension and flexion. Subcutaneous olecranon bursa – lies between the olecranon and overlying skin. Inflammation here results in olecranon bursitis. Ligaments The joint capsule is reinforced by two main collateral ligaments: Radial collateral ligament – extends from the lateral epicondyle of the humerus and blends with the annular ligament of the radius, which encircles the radial head. Ulnar collateral ligament – arises from the medial epicondyle and attaches to both the coronoid process and olecranon of the ulna. By TeachMeSeries Ltd (2025) Fig 2Ligaments of the elbow joint. Blood Supply The elbow receives a rich arterial network formed by anastomoses between branches of the brachial, radial, and ulnar arteries around the joint. Innervation The elbow joint is supplied by branches of the musculocutaneous, radial, ulnar, and median nerves. Movements The orientation of the articulating surfaces of the elbow joint create a hinge-type synovial joint, allowing the following movements: Flexion – produced by the brachialis, biceps brachii, and brachioradialis Extension – produced by the triceps brachii and anconeus Clinical Relevance Injuries to the Elbow Joint Bursitis Bursitis refers to inflammation of a bursa — a small sac containing a thin film of synovial fluid that reduces friction between moving structures such as tendons, bones, and skin. When inflamed, the bursa fills with excess fluid, causing pain and swelling. The most common form affecting the elbow is subcutaneous olecranon bursitis. This occurs due to repeated friction or pressure over the posterior aspect of the elbow (for example, leaning on hard surfaces). Because this bursa lies just beneath the skin, it can also become infected after minor trauma or a superficial laceration. Dislocation An elbow dislocation usually occurs when a young child falls on a hand with the elbow flexed. The distal end of the humerus is driven through the weakest part of the joint capsule, which is the anterior side. The ulnar collateral ligament is usually torn and there can also be ulnar nerve involvement Most elbow dislocations are posterior, and it is important to note that elbow dislocations are named by the position of the ulna and radius, not the humerus. By Life in the Fast Lane [CC BY-SA 4.0] Fig 3X-ray of a posterior dislocation of the elbow. Epicondylitis (Tennis elbow or Golfer’s elbow) The forearm flexor and extensor muscles share common origins on the medial and lateral epicondyles respectively. Overuse of these tendons can lead to pain and inflammation at the affected epicondyle: Tennis elbow (lateral epicondylitis) – Overuse of the common extensor origin. Golfer’s elbow (medial epicondylitis) – Overuse of the common flexor origin. A useful mnemonic: Golfers aim for the “middle” of the fairway, tennis players aim for the “lateral” line of the court. Supracondylar Fracture A supracondylar fracture occurs most often in children after a fall onto an outstretched hand with the elbow extended. The fracture line runs transversely between the two epicondyles in the relatively weak region between the olecranon and coronoid fossae. This injury may compromise the brachial artery, leading to forearm ischaemia and, if untreated, Volkmann’s ischaemic contracture — a fixed flexion deformity of the hand caused by fibrosis of the forearm flexors. The median, ulnar, or radial nerves may also be injured. A thorough neurovascular assessment and documentation are essential in all cases. Acute vascular compromise presents as a pale, pulseless limb and requires urgent surgical intervention. Do you think you’re ready? Take the quiz below Pro Feature - Quiz The Elbow Joint Question 1 of 3 Submitting... Skip Next Rate question: You scored 0% Skipped: 0/3 1800 More Questions Available Upgrade to TeachMeAnatomy Pro Challenge yourself with over 1800 multiple-choice questions to reinforce learning Learn More Rate This Article