Elbow bursitis, also known as olecranon bursitis, is a condition characterized by inflammation of the olecranon bursa, a small fluid-filled sac located at the tip of the elbow. The bursa helps reduce friction between the skin and the underlying bone during movement. When it becomes irritated or inflamed due to trauma, prolonged pressure, repetitive motions, infection, or underlying medical conditions, patients may experience swelling, pain, tenderness, and limited elbow function. Dr. Salil Gupta, MD, is a board-certified orthopaedic surgeon specializing in hand and upper extremity care, providing comprehensive diagnosis and treatment for olecranon bursitis.

The elbow contains a large, curved, pointy bone at the back called the olecranon, which is covered by the olecranon bursa, a small fluid-filled sac that allows smooth movement between the bone and overlying skin. Inflammation of this bursa leads to a condition called olecranon bursitis.

What are the causes of elbow bursitis?

The causes of elbow bursitis may include trauma or a hard blow, excessive leaning on the elbow, infection through puncture wounds or insect bites, or conditions such as gout and rheumatoid arthritis. Certain occupations such as plumbing or air conditioning technicians, which involve a lot of crawling on the elbows, are highly prone to this condition.

What are the symptoms of elbow bursitis?

Swelling is your first symptom of elbow bursitis. As more and more liquid fills into the bursa, the swelling increases, causing pain, which increases with direct pressure or bending of the elbow. If the bursa becomes infected, your skin can become warm and red, and may spread to other parts of the arm or even the blood stream if not treated immediately. 

How is elbow bursitis diagnosed?

Elbow bursitis can be diagnosed by reviewing your medical history and undergoing a thorough physical examination. Your doctor may also order an X-ray and biopsy of the bursa fluid to test for infection.

What are the treatment options? 

Treatment for elbow bursitis depends on your doctor's advice. If bursitis is caused due to an infection, your doctor may recommend removal of fluid from the bursa with a needle and prescribe antibiotics. Non-infected elbow bursitis can be treated with an elbow pad to cushion your elbow, avoiding activities that place direct pressure on the swollen elbow, anti-inflammatory medications to reduce swelling, or injection of corticosteroid medication directly into the bursa to relieve pain and swelling. When these methods do not help, the bursa is surgically removed. In a few months, a normally functioning bursa grows back.

Protection of your elbow from excessive friction may prevent bursitis, or elbow pads can be worn when you need to lean on your elbows while working.