1. Elbow Anatomy and Biomechanics
Mimi Renaudin, DPT
University of Mississippi Medical Center

2. Objectives Describe the anatomy and joint articulations at the elbow
Discuss the static and dynamic constraints acting at the elbow
Identify the neurovascular contributions within the elbow joint

3. Elbow Snap Shot Trochoginglymoid joint Humerus Radius Ulna
2 Degrees of freedom
Flexion/Extension and forearm rotation
Humerus
Radius
Ulna

4. Anatomy Overview

6. Joint Articulations
Humeroradial
Humeroulnar
Proximal Radioulnar

7. Anterior Muscular Component
9 muscles cross the anterior aspect of the joint
Only 3 have primary action on the elbow
Radioulnar joint - rotation
Remaining 4 muscles arise from common flexor tendon on medial epicondyle

8. Elbow Flexors

9. Radioulnar Motion
Supinator, pronator teres with assistance from pronator quadratus distally

10. Anterior Musculature Final 4 muscles attach on medial epicondyle
Primary actions occur at the wrist and digits PL
FCR
FCU
FDS

11. Posterior Muscular Component
Elbow extensors: triceps, anconeus
Triceps: 3 heads
Long: crosses GH and elbow
Medial/Lateral: only cross elbow
Anconeus
Common extensor tendon

12. Elbow Extensors

13. Lateral Epicondyle Attachments
Extensor carpi radialis longus
Extensor carpi radialis brevis
Extensor digitorum
Extensor carpi ulnaris
Extensor digiti minimi

14. Capsuloligamentous Complex
Medial collateral ligament
Lateral collateral ligament

15. Medial Collateral Ligament
Resists valgus stress
Limits extension
Taut throughout arch of motion
Anterior fibers most taut in extension
Posterior bundle is taut in flexion
Transverse fibers provide valgus stability and help with joint approximation

16. Vascular Contribution

17. Normal Elbow Motion Normal ROM: Functional ROM: Elbow 0-145°
Pronation: 80°
Supination: 85°
Functional ROM:
Elbow °
Pronation: 50°
Supination: 50°

18. Carrying Angle
Formed by valgus tilt of the axis of rotation (humeral articulation) and the valgus orientation of the ulnar shaft in reference to the olecranon

19. References
DeLee, Drez. DeLee and Drez’s Orthopaedic Sports Medicine. 3rd ed
2. Levangie PK, Norkin CC. Joint Structure & Function. 4th ed
3. Moore KL, Dalley AF, Agur AM. Clinically Oriented Anatomy. 6th ed

20. Questions