The radial collateral ligament is the fan-shaped band on the outer side of the elbow, running from the lateral epicondyle of the humerus to the annular ligament. Because it attaches to the annular ligament rather than to the radius itself, the radial head can rotate freely beneath it. It lies deep to the common extensor origin and is one part of the lateral collateral ligament complex, alongside the lateral ulnar collateral ligament and the annular ligament.
| Origin | Lateral epicondyle of the humerus |
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| Insertion | Blends with the annular ligament of the radius (no direct attachment to the radius, which leaves it free to rotate) |
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The radial collateral ligament mainly resists varus stress, while posterolateral rotatory stability depends more on the lateral ulnar collateral ligament. It lies directly under the extensor carpi radialis brevis origin, so it can be damaged by overly deep debridement in tennis elbow surgery or by repeated steroid injections. It is commonly torn along with the rest of the lateral complex in elbow dislocation.
The lateral collateral complex, including the radial collateral ligament, is usually the first structure to fail in elbow dislocation. Most injuries heal with early protected movement, but persistent instability may need repair.
Deep release during surgery for lateral epicondylalgia, or repeated steroid injection, can weaken the radial collateral ligament and nearby lateral ulnar collateral ligament, leading to lateral elbow instability.
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