Although clinical examination forms the basis of the diagnostic process in elbow joint pathologies, radiological imaging plays a complementary role in both diagnosis and treatment. Due to its complex anatomical structure consisting of the humeroulnar, humeroradial, and proximal radioulnar joints, the elbow is a region that frequently requires a multimodal imaging approach. Direct radiography is the first-line method of evaluating acute traumatic and chronic degenerative processes in radiological imaging thanks to its cost-effectiveness, speed and widespread accessibility. Auxiliary projections used in addition to standard views further increase the diagnostic sensitivity of X-rays. Computed tomography (CT) is frequently utilized in clinical practice, especially in trauma cases, due to its rapid imaging capability, accessibility, high-resolution cross-sectional bone analysis, and 3D reconstruction options. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), which provides the highest soft tissue contrast resolution, remains the gold standard for evaluating ligamentous injuries, tendon pathologies and cartilage damage. Selecting the appropriate imaging method based on the patient`s status and clinical suspicion is critical for accurate diagnosis and effective treatment in the wide clinical spectrum of acute and chronic elbow conditions. This article reviews direct radiography, CT and MRI, which are fundamental to evaluating elbow pathologies, in light of current literature.