You’ve heard the term “funny bone” before, a play on words describing the tingling sensation felt when an elbow is hurt. Not a laughing matter, the elbow is a complex hinge joint that connects the upper arm to the forearm. It plays a crucial role in the movement and functionality of the arm, allowing for a wide range of motion. Understanding the anatomy of the elbow is essential for comprehending how it functions and for diagnosing potential issues when they arise.
The elbow is a hinged joint made up of three bones, the humerus, ulna, and radius. The ends of the bones are covered with cartilage. Cartilage has a rubbery consistency that allows the joints to slide easily against one another and absorb shock. The bones are held together with ligaments that form the joint capsule. The joint capsule is a fluid filled sac that surrounds and lubricates the joint.
In addition to bony anatomy of the elbow, the medial collateral ligament (inside of elbow) and the lateral collateral ligament (outside of elbow) provide the main source of stability for the elbow, holding the humerus and the ulna tightly together. A third ligament, the annular ligament, holds the radial head tight against the ulna. The important tendons of the elbow are the biceps tendon, which is attached to the biceps muscle on the front of your arm, the triceps tendon, which attaches the triceps muscle on the back of your arm, and the forearm flexor and extensor musculature are also important tendons that contribute to stability.
The muscles in your forearm cross the elbow and attach to the humerus. The outside (lateral) bump just above the elbow is called the lateral epicondyle. Most of the muscles that straighten the fingers and wrist come together and attach to the medial epicondyle, or the bump on the inside of your arm just above the elbow. Three main nerves - the radial nerve, the ulnar nerve and the medial nerve - are responsible for signaling your muscles to work and to also relay sensations such as touch, pain and temperature.
Given the complexity of the elbow, it can be susceptible to a variety of injuries.Experts are available SOS to provide quality orthopedic care for people experiencing elbow pain from overuse, traumatic injury, or underlying medical disorders such as arthritis. Overuse injuries frequently occur in individuals engaged in repetitive activities—for example, athletes who play tennis or professionals in construction. Additionally, traumatic events such as dislocations and fractures represent common etiologies of elbow pain. Chronic cases may also arise due to medical conditions like rheumatoid arthritis or osteoarthritis.
Treatment varies from rest and home care for minor issues to physical therapy, medication, or surgery for severe cases, with early medical evaluation recommended for persistent or significant symptoms. SOS has medical providers trained in the care of elbow and other joints. David DiStefano, MD, a fellowship trained surgeon, recently joined SOS, after training in shoulder and elbow care at both University of Colorado and Steadman Hawkins Sports Medicine Clinic. He is extensively trained in both arthroscopic and open repair and reconstruction of the shoulder and elbow, including fracture care, tendon and ligament repair and reconstruction, as well as arthroplasty. “I look forward to combining technological advancements with a compassionate, patient-centered approach,” comments DiStefano. “Proper elbow function is necessary to complete everyday tasks because that joint actually effects the movement of the wrists and fingers.”
Patients experiencing elbow pain or injury should contact Dr. DiStefano and colleagues at 315-251-3100 or via www.sosbones.com.