Overview
The annular ligament forms a strong loop around the radial head. It attaches to the front and back edges of the radial notch on the ulna, holding the radius close while its head spins during palm-up and palm-down movement.
It is also part of the lateral ligament complex and contributes to elbow stability.
Common Problems
In young children, a sudden pull on the hand or forearm can allow the radial head to slip partly beneath the ligament. This is commonly called nursemaid’s elbow and requires assessment and reduction by a trained professional. In adults, annular-ligament injury is more likely to occur with a larger elbow injury rather than in isolation.
When to Get It Assessed
A child who suddenly stops using an arm after being pulled should be assessed. After trauma at any age, marked pain with forearm rotation, deformity or loss of motion also needs evaluation.
References
- StatPearls. “Anatomy, Shoulder and Upper Limb, Elbow Annular Ligament.” https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK538494/