An elbow is the joint that connects the upper arm to the forearm. It's a hinge joint that allows for bending and straightening of the arm. The elbow joint is formed by the meeting of three bones:
- Humerus: The long bone in the upper arm
- Ulna: One of the two bones in the forearm, located on the pinky finger side
- Radius: The other bone in the forearm, located on the thumb side
The ends of these bones are covered with cartilage, which is a smooth, rubbery substance that allows for easy movement and helps absorb shock. Ligaments, which are strong bands of tissue, hold the bones together and form the joint capsule.
The elbow allows for a wide range of motion, enabling us to perform various tasks like:
- Lifting and carrying objects
- Writing and typing
- Throwing and catching
- Eating and drinking
- Many other everyday activities
Elbow injuries are common, especially in athletes and people who participate in contact sports. Some common elbow injuries include:
- Elbow fractures
- Elbow sprains
- Elbow dislocations
- Elbow tendinopathy (tennis elbow and golfer's elbow)
- Osteoarthritis of the elbow
These injuries can be caused by falls, twisting injuries, or blunt force trauma. Treatment options vary depending on the severity of the injury and can range from rest and ice to surgery.
