The Elbow

Abstract

Although the elbow is rarely given top priority in teaching or training situations, its function is critical to upper extremity use. In looking at the arm as a unit, the tremendous range of motion of the shoulder can be thought of positioning the hand on the outer surface of a sphere. It is the flexion, extension, pronation, and supination of the elbow and forearm that allow positioning of the hand within that sphere, thus creating the ability to function throughout a huge volume of space surrounding a person. When elbow and forearm function are compromised by pain, injury, or loss of motion, significant disability can result. The goals of this chapter are to present the elbow’s functional anatomy, describe how to evaluate this region, and present an approach to diagnosis and treatment of common elbow problems.