Anatomy of The Elbow

Your elbow is an essential part of your daily life. It allows you to work, play and perform everyday activities. In fact, how well your elbow functions depends entirely on the integrity of the ligaments, tendons, muscles and bones that comprise this all-important joint. At Sugar Land
Orthopedic Institute, our physicians are well trained in the numerous surgical techniques and non-surgical treatment plans designed to restore function and range of motion to patients’ lives. Whether you suffer from years of use or a traumatic injury, a chronic condition or a recent development, you do not have to endure pain or stiffness in your elbow.

Our specialty-trained physicians understand the intricate workings of this joint. They have spent years dedicating their practice to the new technology, continuing medical education, and diagnosis and treatment for conditions of the upper extremity. So whether your condition is due to arthritis, a sports injury such as tennis elbow or golfer's elbow, an accident, a work-related injury or a congenital disorder, you can feel confident choosing Sugar Land
Orthopedic Institute for your treatment and care.

Anatomy
The elbow is a joint made up of three bones. It bends and straightens like a hinge. It is also important for rotation of the forearm; that is, the ability to turn our hands up (like accepting change from a cashier) or down (like typing or playing piano).

• Humerus – Bone of the upper arm between the shoulder and the elbow.
• Radius - One of the forearm bones between the elbow and wrist. It is located on the "thumb side" of the forearm.
• Ulna - the other forearm bone between the elbow and wrist, running next to the radius. It is on the "pinky side" of the forearm.

Bones of the elbow
The elbow consists of portions of all three bones:

• Distal humerus - the "hinge" of the elbow.
• Radial head - moves around the distal humerus and also rotates when the wrist is turned up and down.
• Olecranon - the bony "point" of the elbow

The elbow is held together by three main things:

• Ligaments
• Muscles and tendons
• Shape of the bone