Anatomical Considerations of Throwing Elbow Injuries

The elbow is a complex joint which requires a balance of static and dynamic structures in order to maintain the stability needed to complete an overhead throwing motion. The repetitive nature of overhead throwing and the unique forces imparted upon the elbow joint result in pathology unique to this specific population. Given the myriad of clinical elbow pathologies in throwers, special attention must be given to the anatomy in order to both correctly diagnose and treat the overhead throwing athlete. Additionally, an understanding of the intimate anatomical relationships in the elbow are critical to surgical treatment and successful outcomes.