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Elbow joint

Learning objectives

After completing this study unit you will be able to:

  1. List the bones that form the elbow joint.
  2. Identify the main structural components (articular surfaces, ligaments, cartilages, membranes, bursae) of the elbow joint.
  3. Understand the main function and main movements of the elbow joint.

Watch video

The elbow joint is a synovial hinge joint found in the upper limb between the distal arm and the proximal forearm. It is the point of articulation of three bones including the humerus, radius, and ulna. The main articulation of the elbow is formed between the distal humerus and proximal ulna. However, there are additional articulations between the proximal radius and the humerus, as well as between the proximal radius and ulna. Functionally, the elbow is a hinge joint, allowing movement in only one plane: flexion and extension. Yet, it also facilitates motion in the hand in the form of supination and pronation of the forearm.

This video tutorial will provide you with an overview of the elbow joint.

Take a quiz

Now after watching the video about the elbow joint, check your knowledge by taking our quiz.

Was our quiz about the elbow joint too easy for you or you need more questions? No worries, you can now choose your own quiz topics and level of difficulty with our custom quiz!

Browse atlas

Now you can visualize each feature of the elbow joint. First, you can observe the structures from the lateral and medial perspectives, and then from the sagittal section.

Summary

Key points about the elbow joint
Bones Humerus, radius, ulna
Joints Humeroulnar joint, humeroradial joint, proximal radioulnar joint
Ligaments Ulnar collateral ligament, radial collateral ligament, anular ligament
Movements Flexion, extension, supination, pronation

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