The Elbow Joint
The elbow joint is a hinge joint formed by articulation between the humerus, radius and ulna.
The movements permitted by the elbow joint include flexion and extension. Use this summary video and the other resources on this page to learn more about the elbow joint and the muscles that generate movement at this joint.
Movement of the forearm towards the body in the sagittal plane by bending at the elbow is known as elbow flexion. This motion is demonstrated in the accompanying animated model.
The muscles that act to produce flexion of the forearm at the elbow joint are the biceps brachii, brachialis and brachioradialis. The brachioradialis is a particularly strong flexor when the forearm is in the mid-prone position. Pronator teres is also a weak flexor at the elbow.
Flexion
Extension
Movement of the forearm away from the body in the sagittal plane by bending at the elbow is known as elbow extension. This motion is demonstrated in the accompanying animated model.
The muscles that act to produce extension of the forearm at the elbow joint are the triceps brachii and anconeus.
