RT Book, Section A1 Norkin, Cynthia C. A2 Levangie, Pamela K. A2 Norkin, Cynthia C. SR Print(0) ID 1132839491 T1 The Elbow Complex T2 Joint Structure and Function: A Comprehensive Analysis, 5e YR 2011 FD 2011 PB McGraw-Hill Education PP New York, NY SN 9780803623620 LK fadavispt.mhmedical.com/content.aspx?aid=1132839491 RD 2024/03/28 AB The joints and muscles of the elbow complex are designed to serve the hand. They provide mobility for the hand in space by shortening and lengthening the upper extremity. This allows the hand to be brought close to the face for eating and grooming or to be placed at a distance from the body equal to the length of the entire upper extremity. Rotation at the elbow complex provides additional mobility for the hand. In conjunction with providing mobility for the hand, the elbow complex structures also provide stability for skilled or forceful movements of the hand when performing activities with tools or implements. Many of the 15 muscles that cross the elbow complex1 also act at either the wrist or shoulder, and therefore the wrist and shoulder are linked with the elbow in enhancing the function of the hand.