Functional Anatomy

The elbow-forearm complex is comprised of the humeroulnar, humeroradial, and radioulnar joints. The majority of joint stability comes from the humeroulnar joint. Upper extremity mobilty for agility, reaching, and manipulating objects required functional range of motion within this complex.

Functional range of motion (ROM) is 30-130 degrees at the elbow and a combined 100 degree in the forearm, equally distributed

Anatomy and Kinesiology Review Videos(Approximately 8 minutes, and 4 minutes respectively)

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Ligaments

The ligaments and joint capsule are primary sources of joint stability

  • medial collateral ligament - also called ulnar collateral ligament, is a complex of three ligaments that form a fan: anterior, posterior, and transfer. It's role is to protect against valgus forces throughout the range of motion
  • lateral collateral ligament - also called radial collateral ligament, intersects with the annular ligament, which provides stability against varus stresses
  • annular ligament - stabilizes and controls the position of the radius with respect to the ulna and the humerus during elbow and forearm activities

The interossesus membrane provides stability between the radius and ulna during pronation and supination motions

Videos for Varus and Valgus Tests (Approximately 4 minutes)

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Muscles, bones, and motions

Check your muscles that flex and extend the elbow, and pronate and supinate the forearm.