Clinical Biomechanics of the Elbow

This paper describes the biomechanics of the articulations of the elbow joint that is relevant to therapists who design rehabilitation programs for patients following injuries or surgeries to the elbow. Individual and combined joint movements required for function such as activities of daily living are discussed, including normal arthrokinematics and the components that contribute to joint stability. The strain behavior of the nerves that cross the elbow is also reviewed. Therapists will understand the complexities of the biomechanics of the elbow that is necessary to design safe and effective rehabilitation programs.