Elbow (Olecranon) Bursitis: Symptoms, Causes, Treatment

What are the symptoms of elbow bursitis?

Elbow bursitis, also known as olecranon bursitis, occurs when the bursa—a small, fluid-filled sac located at the bony tip of the elbow—becomes inflamed. The symptoms of elbow bursitis include:

1. Swelling: A noticeable swelling at the back of the elbow, which can develop gradually or appear suddenly.
2. Pain: Discomfort or pain in the affected area, especially when pressure is applied or during elbow movement.
3. Redness and Warmth: The skin over the inflamed bursa may become red and feel warm to the touch, indicating possible infection.
4. Limited Range of Motion: Difficulty or pain when bending or straightening the elbow.
5. Tenderness: The area around the elbow may feel tender when pressed.
6. Fever: In cases where the bursitis is caused by an infection, fever and general feelings of illness may occur.

If the bursitis is due to infection (septic bursitis), additional symptoms such as increased redness, warmth, and systemic signs of infection (like fever) may be present. If you suspect elbow bursitis, especially if there’s a possibility of infection, it’s important to seek medical attention for proper diagnosis and treatment.

What are the causes of elbow bursitis?

Elbow bursitis can be caused by a variety of factors, including:

1. Trauma: A direct blow to the elbow can cause the bursa to become inflamed. This might happen during a fall or collision.
2. Repetitive Pressure: Continuous pressure on the elbow, such as leaning on hard surfaces for extended periods (often seen in students, office workers, or manual laborers), can irritate the bursa.
3. Overuse: Repeated or excessive bending and straightening of the elbow, often associated with certain sports or occupations, can lead to inflammation of the bursa.
4. Infection: Bacterial infection (septic bursitis) can occur if the bursa is punctured or cut, allowing bacteria to enter. This is more common in individuals with compromised immune systems or those with chronic conditions like diabetes.
5. Medical Conditions: Certain conditions, such as rheumatoid arthritis or gout, can cause inflammation of the bursa. These conditions lead to crystal deposits or autoimmune inflammation in the bursa.
6. Prolonged Pressure: Conditions like frequent leaning on elbows (desk workers or plumbers) can cause chronic pressure, leading to bursitis.

Understanding the cause of elbow bursitis is important for determining the appropriate treatment and preventive measures.

How is elbow bursitis diagnosed?

Elbow bursitis is typically diagnosed through a combination of medical history, physical examination, and sometimes imaging studies. Here’s how it’s usually done:

1. Medical History: Your doctor will ask about your symptoms, including when they started, if there was any trauma to the elbow, and any activities or occupations that might be contributing factors.
2. Physical Examination: The doctor will examine your elbow, looking for signs of swelling, redness, warmth, tenderness, and range of motion. They may also assess for signs of infection, such as fever.
3. Imaging Studies: While not always necessary, imaging tests such as X-rays or ultrasound may be ordered to rule out other causes of elbow pain, such as fractures or arthritis. Ultrasound can also directly visualize the bursa and assess for inflammation or fluid accumulation.
4. Aspiration: In cases where infection is suspected, the doctor may perform a procedure called aspiration, where a small sample of fluid is withdrawn from the bursa with a needle and syringe. This fluid can be analyzed to determine if there is an infection present.
5. Blood Tests: If an infection is suspected, blood tests may be ordered to check for signs of infection, such as an elevated white blood cell count or markers of inflammation.

Based on the findings from these diagnostic steps, your doctor can confirm the diagnosis of elbow bursitis and develop a treatment plan tailored to your specific situation.

What is the treatment for elbow bursitis?

The treatment for elbow bursitis depends on the underlying cause and severity of the condition. Here are some common approaches:

1. Rest and Immobilization: Resting the affected elbow and avoiding activities that exacerbate symptoms can help reduce inflammation. Immobilizing the elbow with a splint or brace may also be recommended to prevent further irritation.
2. Ice Therapy: Applying ice packs to the affected area several times a day can help reduce swelling and alleviate pain. It’s typically advised to apply ice for about 15-20 minutes at a time, with at least one hour between sessions.
3. Pain Management: Over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) or naproxen (Aleve) can help relieve pain and reduce inflammation. In some cases, your doctor may prescribe stronger pain medication if needed.
4. Compression: Using a compression bandage or elbow sleeve can help reduce swelling and provide support to the affected area.
5. Elevation: Keeping the affected elbow elevated above the level of the heart when resting can help reduce swelling and promote healing.
6. Physical Therapy: Once inflammation has subsided, a physical therapist can provide exercises to improve flexibility, strength, and range of motion in the elbow. This can help prevent recurrence of bursitis and restore normal function.
7. Aspiration and Injection: In cases of severe or persistent bursitis, your doctor may perform aspiration to remove excess fluid from the bursa and inject a corticosteroid medication to reduce inflammation.
8. Antibiotics: If the bursitis is caused by a bacterial infection (septic bursitis), antibiotics will be necessary to clear the infection.
9. Surgery: In rare cases where conservative treatments fail to provide relief, surgical removal of the inflamed bursa (bursectomy) may be considered. This is typically reserved for chronic or recurrent cases of bursitis.

It’s important to consult with a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment recommendations tailored to your specific situation.