The bone you might feel sticking out near your elbow is most commonly one of the epicondyles, which are distinct bony bumps located at the bottom of your upper arm bone (humerus). Specifically, if it's on the outer side of your elbow, it's called the lateral epicondyle.
Understanding the Bony Prominences of Your Elbow
Your elbow joint is formed by the interaction of three bones: the humerus (upper arm bone), and the radius and ulna (forearm bones). There are several natural bony landmarks around the elbow that you can feel, which are crucial for muscle attachment and joint stability.
The Epicondyles: Bumps of the Humerus
The bony prominences, or bumps, at the bottom of the humerus are known as the epicondyles. There are two main epicondyles:
- Lateral Epicondyle: This is the prominent bump located on the outer side of your elbow. It serves as an important attachment point for the muscles responsible for extending your wrist and fingers. If you experience pain and tenderness at this specific bump, it could be associated with conditions like lateral epicondylitis, often known as "tennis elbow."
- Medial Epicondyle: This bump is situated on the inner side of your elbow. It acts as the attachment point for muscles that flex your wrist and fingers, as well as for some of the ligaments that stabilize the inner elbow.
These structures are integral to the mechanics of your arm and provide leverage for muscle movements.
Key Elbow Bony Prominences
Here's a summary of the epicondyles:
Bony Prominence | Location Relative to Elbow | Description |
---|---|---|
Epicondyles | Bottom of the humerus | Bony prominences or bumps crucial for muscle attachment |
Lateral Epicondyle | Outer side | The specific bump on the outer part of the elbow |
Medial Epicondyle | Inner side | The specific bump on the inner part of the elbow |
If you notice a new or unusual bump, or if the area is painful, it's always advisable to consult a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate guidance.
For more information on the anatomy of the elbow, you can refer to resources like Elbow Anatomy Explained.