Elbow Problems Flashcards
what two joints does the elbow consist of
humero-ulnar joint (responsible for flexion / extension) and radio-capitallar joint (supination / pronation along with the proximal and distal radioulnar joints)
what muscle powers elbow extension
triceps muscle which insets onto olecranon process
what muscles powers elbow flexion
brachialis (inserting onto coronoid process) and biceps (inserting into bicipital tuberosity of radius)
what muscles perform supination and pronation of elbow
Supination is performed by the biceps and supinator muscles whereas pronation is performed by contraction of the pronator teres muscles proximally and the pronator quadratus muscle distally
where does the common extensor arise from
lateral epicondyle
where does common flexor arise from
medial epicondyle
what arthritis is elbow common affected in
RA
primary OA is rare but can be secondary to trauma
what is tennis elbow aka lateral epicondylitis
repetitive strain injury in tennis players and others who regularly perform resisted extension at wrist
can also be degenerative enthesopathy
what is the pathology of lateral epicondylitis
micro-tears in the common extensor origin
what is symptoms of lateral epicondylitis
painful and tender lateral epicondyle and pain on resisted middle finger and wrist extension
how is lateral epicondylitis treated
self limiting = rest, physio and NSAIDs
can also use steroid injections, brace (elbow clasp)
v rarely surgery is given (division or excision or some fibres of common extensor origin)
what is golfers elbow (medial epicondylitis)
medial epicondylitis is consequence of repetitive strain or degeneration of common flexor origin
what of the epicondylitis’s is more common
lateral is more common
what is treatment of medial epicondylitis
self limiting with physiotherapy, rest and NSAIDs
injection here not recommended as risk to ulnar nerve
what can be used in the treatment of arthritis at radio-capitellar joint which has failed non-operative management
surgical excision of radial head = good pain relief with minimal function limitation
