Tendons are rope-like structures of dense fibrous connective tissue that connect muscles to bones. They transmit the mechanical forces generated by muscle contraction to the skeletal system, enabling movement. Tendons also withstand tension, contributing to joint stability throughout the body. The elbow, a complex joint, relies significantly on its surrounding tendons for both function and structural integrity.
Primary Elbow Tendons
The elbow joint is surrounded by several important tendons. The biceps tendon connects the biceps muscle, located on the front of the upper arm, to the radius bone in the forearm, specifically inserting onto the radial tuberosity.
On the back of the upper arm, the triceps tendon attaches the triceps muscle to the ulna. These two tendons facilitate the primary bending and straightening motions of the elbow.
The common extensor tendon originates from the lateral epicondyle, a bony prominence on the outer side of the humerus. This tendon serves as the attachment point for several muscles responsible for extending the wrist and fingers.
Conversely, the common flexor tendon originates from the medial epicondyle, a bony prominence on the inner side of the humerus. This tendon provides an attachment for muscles that flex the wrist and fingers.
Role of Elbow Tendons
Elbow tendons play a direct role in enabling the joint’s wide range of motion. The biceps tendon facilitates elbow flexion, which is the bending of the arm, and also contributes to forearm supination, the action of turning the palm upward. The triceps tendon, positioned on the opposite side, is responsible for elbow extension, allowing the arm to straighten.
The common extensor and flexor tendons, while primarily controlling wrist and finger movements, also influence elbow function. Their associated muscles cross the elbow joint, contributing to its overall stability during various activities.
Common Tendon Conditions
Tendinitis refers to the inflammation or irritation of a tendon, causing pain and tenderness near a joint. This condition can arise from sudden injury or, more commonly, from repetitive movements that stress the tendons over time.
One common condition affecting the elbow is Tennis Elbow, medically known as lateral epicondylitis. This involves inflammation or degeneration of the common extensor tendon at its origin on the lateral epicondyle, often caused by repetitive wrist extension or gripping activities. Symptoms typically include pain and tenderness on the outer part of the elbow, which can worsen with activity.
Golfer’s Elbow, also known as medial epicondylitis, affects the common flexor tendon at the medial epicondyle. This condition results from repetitive wrist flexion or gripping motions, leading to pain and inflammation on the inner side of the elbow.
The biceps tendon can also experience tendinitis, characterized by pain and soreness at the front of the elbow. In more severe cases, a biceps tendon rupture can occur, often felt as a “pop” sensation and leading to weakness. Similarly, the triceps tendon can develop tendinitis, causing pain and weakness with elbow extension, and in some instances, a rupture.