Elbow joint anatomy in 3D

The elbow joint is where the lower end of the humerus meets the upper ends of the radius and ulna of the forearm. One joint capsule holds three joints together: the humero-ulnar, the humero-radial and the proximal radioulnar joints. The point of the elbow you can feel at the back is the olecranon of the ulna.

Frequently asked questions

Which bones form the elbow joint?

The elbow joint is formed by the humerus, the radius and the ulna.

What type of joint is the elbow joint?

Between the humerus and ulna it is a hinge joint, moving in one plane like a door hinge; the proximal radioulnar joint between the radius and ulna is a pivot joint.

What movements happen at the elbow joint?

It bends and straightens the arm, and at the proximal radioulnar joint the forearm turns the palm down (pronation) and up (supination).

Bones of the elbow joint

Other joints

Skeleton

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Related reading

Once the 3D model loads you can turn it and select each part.