Elbow

Anatomy of the Elbow

Anterior View

Posterior View

Medial View

Lateral View

Physiologic (Osteokinematic) Motions of the Elbow

Accessory (Arthrokinematic) Motions of the Elbow

Elbow Mobilization Techniques

Humeroulnar (H/U) Distraction

Indications:

• To improve both elbow flex & ext

Patient:

• Supine with upper arm resting on table or bolster & dorsal forearm resting on clinician's shoulder

• Elbow in H/U open-packed position of 70° of flex & 10° of supination

• May pre-position with arm at point of restriction

Clinician:

• Sitting on ipsilateral side

• Stabilizing contact: Holds upper arm in contact with bolster

• Mobilizing contact: Grasps the most proximal aspect of anterior ulna (avoid contact with radius)

Accessory Motion Technique:

• While stabilizing upper arm, force is exerted through ulnar contact in caudal direction

• Progress this technique by moving elbow in direction of greatest restriction

Accessory With Physiologic Motion Technique:

• Pt supine & clinician standing on ipsilateral side with mobilizing contact as above & stabilizing contact now moved to posterior aspect of distal forearm

• Pt actively moves in direction of greatest restriction

• During active mov't, clinician applies force perpendicular to olecranon against stabilizing force at distal forearm

• Requires a change in clinician position t/o technique

H/U Medial & Lateral Glides

Indications:

• Medial glide is ...