Episode 1 — Elbow Structure, Common Injuries, and Who’s Most at Risk
Elbow pain is one of the most frequently overlooked sports-related issues. In this first episode of our Sports Injuries Interview Series, physiotherapists Nicole Tai and Ricky Tong break down how the elbow works, why it is so vulnerable during sports, and which athletes are most at risk for developing elbow injuries. This version provides both clinical depth and easy-to-understand explanations for athletes, parents, and coaches.
1. How the Elbow Joint Works
Although the elbow looks simple from the outside, it is actually a highly sophisticated biomechanical system designed for both strength and precision. Nicole and Ricky explain that the elbow depends on three major structural pillars:
Bones — The Foundation of Movement
The elbow is formed by three key bones that work together to allow bending, straightening, stability, and forearm rotation:
Humerus – the upper arm bone forming the hinge with the forearm
Radius – the outer (thumb-side) bone responsible for rotation
Ulna – the inner bone that provides major stability under load
These three bones create:
Humeroulnar joint → main hinge movement
Humeroradial joint → absorbs compressive force
Proximal radioulnar joint → pronation–supination mechanics
Ligaments — The Key Stabilizers
Two major ligament complexes keep the elbow stable under stress:
Ulnar Collateral Ligament (UCL)
stabilizes the inside of the elbow; commonly injured in throwing and racquet athletes
Radial Collateral Ligament (RCL)
supports the outer elbow
Muscles & Nerves — Power + Control
The elbow’s dynamic stability comes from surrounding muscles:
Flexor–pronator group (medial support)
Extensor–supinator group (lateral support)
Biceps & triceps controlling power and deceleration
Major nerves (median, radial, ulnar) travel very close to the joint, making them especially vulnerable to:
compression
traction
repetitive loading
Why This Matters Clinically
The elbow handles high-speed, high-force movements, but it lacks the muscular bulk of the shoulder. This mismatch makes it prone to:
overuse
tendon irritation
ligament stress
nerve compression
Small issues easily become chronic if not treated early.
In Conclusion:
In this section, we’ve explored the biomechanics and structure of the elbow joint, as well as its common injuries related to sports. Understanding the anatomy and function of the elbow is essential in recognizing the risks involved in various activities.
However, understanding the elbow’s function alone isn’t enough. Certain sports put more strain on the elbow joint than others, and early diagnosis can help prevent long-term damage.
Stay tuned for Part 2, where we’ll dive deeper into which sports are most likely to cause elbow trauma and discuss how early assessment and intervention can prevent long-term injury.
Part 2 coming up next: The role of sports in elbow injuries and how timely intervention can make all the difference!
