Elbow Bursitis Treatment
Bursae are thin, slippery sacs located throughout the body that act as cushions between bones and soft tissues. They contain a small amount of lubricating fluid that allows the skin to move freely over the underlying bone.
The olecranon bursa lies between the loose skin and the pointy bone at the back of the elbow called the olecranon.
Normally, the olecranon bursa is flat. If it becomes irritated or inflamed, more fluid will accumulate in the bursa and bursitis will develop.
Elbow Bursitis FAQ
What Causes Elbow Bursitis?
Elbow bursitis can occur due to various factors, including:
- Trauma: A hard blow to the elbow can cause swelling and excess fluid buildup.
- Prolonged Pressure: Leaning on the elbow for long periods (e.g., on hard surfaces) may cause inflammation.
- Infection: Bacteria from cuts, insect bites, or puncture wounds can enter the bursa sac, leading to infection.
- Medical Conditions: Conditions such as **rheumatoid arthritis** and **gout** increase the risk of elbow bursitis.
What Are the Symptoms of Elbow Bursitis?
- **Swelling** – Usually the first symptom, which may not be immediately noticeable.
- **Pain** – Increases as the swelling stretches the bursa, worsening with pressure or bending.
- **Restricted motion** – Severe swelling may limit elbow movement.
- **Signs of infection** – Redness, warmth, and pus drainage if the bursitis is infected.
Untreated **infected bursitis** can spread to other parts of the arm and bloodstream, leading to serious illness.
What Are the Treatment Options for Elbow Bursitis?
Nonsurgical Treatment
If an infection is suspected, fluid may be **aspirated (removed via needle)** for testing, and antibiotics may be prescribed.
For non-infectious bursitis, treatment may include:
- **Elbow pads** – To cushion and protect the elbow.
- **Activity modification** – Avoiding activities that apply pressure to the swollen elbow.
- **Medications** – NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen) to reduce swelling and relieve pain.
If symptoms persist for **3 to 4 weeks**, **corticosteroid injections** may be considered for stronger anti-inflammatory effects.
Surgical Treatment
Surgery is required if **infection does not improve** with antibiotics or fluid drainage, or if non-infectious bursitis does not respond to other treatments.
- For infected bursitis: The bursa may need to be surgically removed, often requiring a short hospital stay.
- For noninfected bursitis: The bursa is removed **as an outpatient procedure**, and it usually regenerates as a normal bursa over time.