Elbow pain can make even the simplest tasks, like lifting a mug or typing, feel frustrating. If you’re experiencing ongoing discomfort in your elbow, you might be wondering whether it’s caused by bursitis or tendonitis. While both conditions can lead to pain and stiffness, they affect different structures and require different treatment approaches.
At Barrington Orthopedic Specialists, our board-certified orthopedic surgeons and fellowship-trained elbow specialists – Dr. Matthew Bernstein an Dr. Mark Yaffe – are experts in diagnosing and treating all types of elbow pain. Whether you’re dealing with swelling, reduced motion, or activity-related discomfort, we offer advanced diagnostics and personalized care at our convenient Chicago-area locations.
Read on to learn how elbow bursitis and tendonitis differ, so you can better understand your symptoms and explore the right treatment options.
What Is Elbow Bursitis?
Elbow bursitis, also called olecranon bursitis, is inflammation of the fluid-filled sac (bursa) located over the pointed bone at the back of your elbow. This bursa acts like a cushion to reduce friction between skin and bone. When inflamed, it fills with fluid and causes visible swelling and pain.
Olecranon bursitis can develop suddenly or gradually. Common causes include:
- Direct trauma: A blow to the elbow from a fall or hit can irritate the bursa.
- Prolonged pressure: Leaning on your elbow for long periods, like on a desk or armrest, can lead to inflammation.
- Infection: Bacteria can enter the bursa through cuts, puncture wounds, or insect bites.
- Medical conditions: Rheumatoid arthritis, gout, or other inflammatory conditions may increase risk.
What Is Elbow Tendonitis?
Elbow tendonitis refers to inflammation or irritation of the tendons, the thick bands that attach muscles to bones. In the elbow, this usually involves either:
- Lateral epicondylitis (tennis elbow): Affects the outer elbow and results from repetitive gripping or wrist extension.
- Medial epicondylitis (golfer’s elbow): Affects the inner elbow, often from repeated wrist flexion.
Tendonitis symptoms in the elbow are typically caused by:
- Overuse or repetitive strain: Repetitive movements, especially in sports or manual labor, are a leading cause.
- Poor technique: Improper form during activity can stress the tendons.
- Sudden increase in activity level: Going too hard, too fast without proper conditioning.
How Do the Symptoms Differ?
Understanding the difference between bursitis and tendonitis starts with recognizing how they feel.
Bursitis symptoms often include:
- Swelling at the back of the elbow
- Mild to moderate pain when pressing or leaning on the elbow
- Limited elbow motion in severe cases
- Redness or warmth if infected
Tendonitis symptoms are typically:
- Localized pain on the inside or outside of the elbow
- Pain that worsens with movement, gripping, or lifting
- Weak grip strength
- No swelling unless there's concurrent inflammation
If your pain is tied to activity and worsens with movement, it may point to tendonitis. If you notice swelling or tenderness at the tip of your elbow, bursitis could be the cause.
How Doctors Diagnose Elbow Pain Conditions
Accurate elbow pain diagnosis is essential for choosing the right treatment. At Barrington Orthopedic Specialists, our physicians start with a thorough medical history and physical exam. To pinpoint the condition, we may also use:
- X-rays to rule out bone injuries or arthritis
- MRI to view soft tissue damage
- May consider aspiration of bursa fluid (in bursitis) to check for infection
- Clinical tests that reproduce tendon pain with motion
These tools help us confidently distinguish between elbow bursitis vs. tendonitis, allowing for targeted care.
Treatment Options for Bursitis and Tendonitis
At Barrington Orthopedic Specialists, treatment begins with an accurate diagnosis and a care plan tailored to your lifestyle and goals. While elbow bursitis and tendonitis can both cause pain and limit function, the treatment strategies differ depending on the source of the problem.
Elbow Bursitis Treatment
For most patients, non-surgical treatment is effective in resolving bursitis symptoms. We typically recommend:
- Activity modification: Avoid leaning on or applying pressure to the elbow to reduce irritation.
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs): Medications like ibuprofen can reduce swelling and ease discomfort.
- Elbow pads or cushions: These help protect the area during daily activities or work-related tasks.
- Ice therapy: Applying cold packs to the elbow can help reduce inflammation and provide pain relief.
- Aspiration and antibiotics: If infection is suspected, we may drain fluid from the bursa and prescribe antibiotics.
- Corticosteroid injection: Used selectively for persistent or non-infectious inflammation.
- Surgical removal: In rare cases, when bursitis does not respond to other treatments or is recurrently infected, the bursa may be surgically removed. This is typically an outpatient procedure.
Elbow Tendonitis Treatment
Treatment for elbow tendonitis focuses on reducing inflammation, promoting tendon healing, and restoring strength:
- Rest and ice: Limiting repetitive motion and applying ice can help calm inflammation in the early stages.
- Bracing or forearm straps: These reduce strain on the affected tendon, especially during activity.
- Occupational therapy: A structured rehab program includes soft tissue mobilization, stretching, strengthening, and proper technique retraining to prevent recurrence.
- NSAIDs or topical anti-inflammatories: Used to relieve pain and reduce tendon irritation.
- Corticosteroid injection: May be considered if inflammation does not improve with initial care.
- Minimally invasive surgery: Reserved for cases where pain persists despite months of conservative treatment.
At Barrington Orthopedic Specialists, we prioritize non-surgical, personalized solutions to help you heal and return to your regular activities, safely and comfortably.
When to See an Elbow Specialist
Ongoing elbow pain, swelling, or limited motion shouldn't be brushed aside, especially if it's interfering with your daily life. While some symptoms may improve with rest and home care, others can signal a more serious issue that needs medical attention.
Consider scheduling an appointment with a specialist if you notice:
- Pain that persists for more than a few weeks
- Swelling, redness, or warmth around the elbow joint
- Fluid drainage from the elbow (a sign of possible infection)
- Reduced grip strength or difficulty holding or lifting objects
- Pain that affects your work, hobbies, or quality of sleep
At Barrington Orthopedic Specialists, our experienced elbow physicians, Dr. Matthew Bernstein and Dr. Mark Yaffe, will perform a thorough evaluation and create a treatment plan that’s customized to your condition, activity level, and goals.
Why Choose Barrington Orthopedic for Elbow Pain?
Choosing the right provider is key to healing well and staying active. At Barrington Orthopedic Specialists, we offer a full-spectrum approach to elbow care that prioritizes accuracy, comfort, and long-term results.
Here’s why patients trust us for their elbow care:
- Specialized Expertise: Our board-certified, fellowship-trained physicians have extensive experience treating both elbow bursitis and tendonitis.
- Minimally Invasive Options: We use advanced, evidence-based treatments and only recommend surgery when necessary.
- On-Site Physical Therapy: Our in-house rehab team works closely with your physician to ensure coordinated, efficient recovery under one roof.
- Personalized Treatment Plans: We tailor each plan based on your diagnosis, lifestyle, and goals—not a one-size-fits-all approach.
- Convenient Locations: We serve patients at four accessible clinics across Schaumburg, Elk Grove Village, Bartlett, and Buffalo Grove.
Whether you’re recovering from an injury, managing chronic elbow pain, or simply want a clear diagnosis, our team is here to help every step of the way.
Get the Right Diagnosis and Relief at Barrington Orthopedic
Understanding whether your elbow pain is due to bursitis or tendonitis is key to getting the right treatment and long-term relief. Our experienced upper extremity team at Barrington Orthopedic Specialists – Dr. Matthew Bernstein and Dr. Mark Yaffe – is here to guide you every step of the way.
If you’re struggling with persistent elbow pain, schedule a consultation at one of our four locations in Schaumburg, Elk Grove Village, Bartlett, or Buffalo Grove. We’ll help you find answers, comfort, and confidence in your care.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I tell if my elbow pain is bursitis or tendonitis?
Bursitis often causes noticeable swelling at the back of the elbow and pain when leaning on it. Tendonitis pain is usually on the inside or outside of the elbow and worsens with movement, gripping, or lifting.
Can I treat bursitis and tendonitis at home?
Mild cases sometimes improve with rest, ice, and avoiding activities that trigger pain. However, persistent or severe symptoms should be evaluated by a specialist to prevent long-term damage.
What happens if I ignore elbow bursitis or tendonitis?
Untreated bursitis can lead to infection or chronic swelling, while tendonitis may progress to tendon tears or prolonged weakness. Early treatment helps prevent these complications.
Is surgery always needed for these conditions?
No. Most patients recover with non-surgical treatments like medication, bracing, therapy, and activity changes. Surgery is only considered if symptoms do not improve after several months of conservative care.
Can these conditions come back after treatment?
Yes, especially if the original cause—like repetitive strain, poor technique, or prolonged pressure—continues. Prevention strategies, including proper ergonomics and strengthening exercises, can lower the risk.
