Elbow

Hands tend to receive most of the attention in the upper extremity world, but they do little good if you are unable to position them properly. Elbows are the key to moving your hands from your body to the length of your arm. They are also crucial for holding or moving objects within your reach. These roles become quickly obvious to patients who have a problem with arm mobility or stability.  

The elbow is a combination of two joints; the ulnohumeral joint (works like a hinge) and the radiocapitellar joint (allows the forearm and wrist to rotate). The joints remain stable as long as the joint surfaces and surrounding ligaments are in constant contact. Think about the motions and stresses put on your joints when doing pushups, putting a plate in the cupboard, or pitching a baseball. Any of these activities (rigorous or easy) can be compromised by arthritis, torn ligaments, fractures, or other conditions in the elbow. Even simple tendon problems (like “tennis elbow” or nerve compression) can cause pain that interferes with daily activities or a good night’s sleep.