Q35 Elbow Joint

Question 1

State the type of joint

Answer 1

Synovial hinge joint (uniaxial), capable of one degree of freedom

Question 2

Briefly describe the articular surfaces of the humero-ulna articulation

Answer 2

.The humerus has a trochlear which articulates with the trochlear notch of ulna. The trochlea surface is concave from side to side but convex from front to back. The medial part of the trochlea extends downwards to a lower level than the lateral sides. The trochlear notch has a rounded curved, longitudinal ridge extending from the tip of the olecranon to the tip of the coronoid process, which fits the groove of the trochlea. All articular surfaces are covered in hyaline cartilage.

Question 3

Briefly describe the articular surfaces of the humero-radial articulation

Answer 3

The head of the radius articulates with the capitulum of the humerus. The head of the radius is concave with continuous convex cartilage around the sides and is thickest on the middle of the concavity. The capitulum is a bony hemisphere on the anterior inferior surface of the distal humerus. All articular surfaces are covered in hyaline cartilage.

Question 4

Name the ligaments which support the elbow joint

Answer 4

Lateral (Radial) collateral ligament

medial (Ulnar) collateral ligament

Question 5

Name the movements that occur at the elbow joint

Answer 5

Flexion and Extension