Bursitis of the Elbow

Bursitis of the elbow, also known as olecranon bursitis, is a condition characterized by inflammation of the bursa located at the tip of the elbow. A bursa is a small, fluid-filled sac that acts as a cushion between bones, tendons, and muscles, reducing friction and allowing smooth movement of the joints. The olecranon bursa, in particular, lies between the skin and the prominent bony point at the back of the elbow called the olecranon process.

What causes the bursitis of the elbow?

When the olecranon bursa becomes inflamed, it can result in pain, swelling, and tenderness at the back of the elbow. The inflammation may be caused by various factors, including:

• Repetitive pressure or friction – Activities or occupations that involve frequent leaning or resting on the elbows can irritate the bursa and lead to inflammation. Examples include leaning on hard surfaces while working, kneeling during gardening or household chores, or prolonged use of crutches.
• Trauma or injury – Direct trauma to the elbow, such as a fall onto the elbow or a sharp blow, can cause inflammation of the olecranon bursa. In some cases, the bursa may become swollen with blood (hemorrhagic bursitis) following a traumatic injury.
• Infection – Bursitis can occur as a result of bacterial infection, leading to infectious olecranon bursitis. This type of bursitis typically causes more severe symptoms, including redness, warmth, and fever, and may require medical treatment with antibiotics.
• Underlying medical conditions – Certain medical conditions, such as rheumatoid arthritis, gout, or psoriatic arthritis, can predispose individuals to develop bursitis due to inflammation in the joints and surrounding tissues.

What are the most common symptoms?

The most common symptoms of elbow bursitis can be seen as:

• Swelling at the back of the elbow
• Pain or tenderness, especially with pressure or movement
• Warmth and redness over the affected area
• Limited range of motion in the elbow
• Fluid accumulation, which may cause a visible lump or “water balloon” sensation

What treatment options are available?

Treatment for olecranon depends on the underlying cause and severity of the symptoms. Some of the options may include:

• Resting the elbow and avoiding activities that aggravate symptoms
• Applying ice packs to reduce pain and inflammation
• Taking over-the-counter pain relievers or anti-inflammatory medications
• Draining excess fluid from the bursa through a procedure called aspiration
• Using compression bandages or elbow pads to protect the affected area
• Antibiotic treatment for infectious bursitis
• Physical therapy to improve strength and flexibility in the elbow
• In severe or recurrent cases, corticosteroid injections or surgical removal of the bursa (bursectomy) may be considered.

It’s essential to consult a healthcare professional, such as a biokineticist,  for proper diagnosis and treatment of olecranon bursitis, especially if symptoms are severe, persistent, or accompanied by signs of infection. Prompt and appropriate management can help relieve pain, reduce inflammation, and prevent complications associated with this condition.