Sonography Term

Elbow joint


The elbow joint is a complex hinge joint formed by the articulation of the humerus with the radius and ulna. In musculoskeletal ultrasound, the elbow is commonly examined for conditions such as lateral epicondylitis (tennis elbow), medial epicondylitis (golfer’s elbow), olecranon bursitis, biceps and triceps tendon injuries, and joint effusion. Ultrasound provides excellent visualization of the tendons, ligaments, nerves, and soft tissues around the elbow, with the advantage of dynamic assessment during joint movement. The ulnar nerve, which runs through a groove behind the medial epicondyle, is readily evaluated with ultrasound for conditions like cubital tunnel syndrome.