Abstract: In this paper, the finite element method (FEM) is combined with the block element method (BKEM) to study the deformation and stability of jointed rock masses around an underground cave. The block element are used to model the rock masses near the cave so that the discontinuous deformation of jointed rock is dealt with easily and the computational effort is reduced accordingly. The governing equations of the present strategy are given. Numerical results show that the present method is feasible.