CH 9: The Elbow Flashcards
What are the 3 main joints of the elbow + the ranges of motion they are responsible for? What is the true elbow joint?
- Humeroulnar (true elbow joint) (Flexion/extension)
- Humeroradial (flexion/extension)
- Radioulnar (pronation/supination)
What are the main ligaments of the elbow?
- Ulnar collateral ligament (interchangeable with MCL of elbow)
- Radial collateral ligament (interchangeable with LCL of elbow)
- Annular ligament
Characteristics of the biceps complex
- Acts on both the shoulder and elbow joint
- Both heads originate from scapula
Actions of the biceps:
- Elbow flexion
- Forearm supination
- Partial aid in shoulder flexion
Characteristics of the triceps complex
- Only muscle on the posterior arm
- Primary extensor of forearm
- Crosses both shoulder and elbow joint
Actions of the triceps:
- Elbow extension
- Shoulder extension
- Aids in shoulder adduction
What is Ulnar Neuropraxia?
A S/S of bursitis of the elbow. Results in weakness and numbness into the 4th and 5th phalanges.
Characteristics + MOI of an Olecranon fracture
- More frequently seen in middle aged men
- Result of direct trauma or forced hyperextension
- Will be painful swollen and discoloured
- Possible deformity
- Will not have the ability to extend elbow against gravity
What are Medial and Lateral Epicondylitis, and what are their characteristics?
Both conditions describe an inflammation at the elbow involving the attachment of the common flexor or extensor tendons of the forearm muscles.
Medial Epicondylitis:
- Inflamed flexor tendons
- Commonly seen in activities that involve supination and pronation on top of loading the forearm flexors
- “Golfer’s Elbow”
Lateral Epicondylitis:
- Inflamed extensor tendons
- Usually caused by eccentric loading of the forearms extensors
- “Tennis Elbow”
Both are usually a sign that there is an instability or weakness in the shoulder.
