Medical Dictionary
Health News Portal is an online community dedicated to the compilation, discussion and dissemination of current and topical news and information related to the Health Care, Medical, and Pharmaceutical industry. We offer an up to the minute selection of health care news feeds, reference information, provider directories, and discussion forums on topics including diseases, conditions, treatments, and links to user communities around the world. Health News Portal is not affiliated with any manufacturer of any pharmaceutical or medical products.
 
 
&nsbp;

MedTerms Medical Dictionary

Provided by MedicineNet.com

Dictionary Home


A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z

Find a medical definition by using the A-Z listing (select a letter)


Elbow joint: Three long bones meet in the middle portion of the arm at the elbow joint. The bone of the upper arm (humerus) meets both the ulna (the inner bone of the forearm) and radius (the outer bone of the forearm) to form a hinge joint. And the radius and ulna also meet one another in the elbow to permit a small amount of rotation of the forearm. The elbow therefore functions to move the arm like a hinge (forward and backward) and in rotation (turn outwards and inwards).

The biceps muscle is the major muscle that flexes (bends) the elbow hinge while the triceps muscle is the major muscle that extends (straightens) it. The primary stability of the elbow is provided by the ulnar collateral ligament located on the medial (inner) side of the elbow.

The outer bony prominence of the elbow is the lateral epicondyle, a part of the humerus bone. Tendons attached to this area can be injured, causing inflammation or tendinitis -- lateral epicondylitis, or "tennis elbow".

The inner portion of the elbow is a bony prominence called the medial epicondyle of the humerus. Additional tendons from muscles attach here and can be injured, likewise causing inflammation or tendinitis -- medial epicondylitis, or "golfer's elbow".


A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z

Find a medical definition by using the A-Z listing (select a letter)


Copyright © 1996-2003 MedicineNet, Inc. All rights reserved.
MedicineNet, Inc. does not endorse any of the services or products offered on this page.
MedicineNet.com - We Bring Doctors' Knowledge to You

Information in the MedTerms Medical Dictionary is provided for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. You should not use this information for diagnosing or treating a medical or health condition. You should carefully read all product packaging. If you have or suspect you have a medical problem, promptly contact your professional healthcare provider.