Elbow joints refer to the complex articulations located in the middle portion of the upper limb, specifically connecting the upper arm bone (humerus) to the two bones of the forearm (radius and ulna). These joints are pivotal in enabling movement, stability, and flexibility of the arm, allowing a wide range of actions such as bending, straightening, and rotating the forearm.
The elbow joint consists of three main components: the humeroulnar joint, humeroradial joint, and superior radioulnar joint. The humeroulnar joint forms the primary hinge-like connection between the trochlea of the humerus and the trochlear notch of the ulna, permitting flexion and extension movements. The humeroradial joint forms the secondary articulation between the capitulum of the humerus and the head of the radius, facilitating supination (rotation of the forearm, turning palm up) and pronation (rotation of the forearm, turning palm down) movements. The superior radioulnar joint, located just beneath the ulna's trochlear notch, allows for the rotation of the radius around the ulna, contributing to forearm supination and pronation.
Elbow joints are reinforced and stabilized by several ligaments, tendons, and muscles. Notable structures include the ulnar collateral ligament, lateral collateral ligament, biceps brachii tendon, triceps brachii muscle, and several smaller muscles responsible for precise control and coordinated movement.
In summary, elbow joints are intricate joints formed by the humerus, radius, and ulna bones, which govern the movements of the forearm. They are crucial for various activities requiring arm motion, providing strength and fluidity to perform tasks such as writing, lifting, and throwing
