Have you ever noticed swelling or pain at the tip of your elbow, especially after leaning on it for too long? You might be experiencing a condition called elbow bursitis — a common and often misunderstood source of elbow discomfort. Let’s explore what it is, what causes it, and how to treat it.

 What Is Elbow Bursitis?

Elbow bursitis, also known as olecranon bursitis, is the inflammation of the bursa — a small, fluid-filled sac located at the tip of the elbow (olecranon). The bursa acts as a cushion between bones and soft tissues, helping reduce friction during movement.

When inflamed, the bursa fills with fluid, causing noticeable swelling, pain, and limited motion in the elbow joint.

 What Causes Elbow Bursitis?

Bursitis can develop for several reasons:

1. Prolonged Pressure

   • Frequently resting the elbows on hard surfaces (e.g., desks, tables).

   • Common in students, office workers, and mechanics.

2. Trauma or Injury

   • A direct blow to the elbow can cause the bursa to become irritated or inflamed.

3. Repetitive Movements

   • Overuse of the elbow joint in activities like sports, manual labor, or typing.

4. Infection (Septic Bursitis)

   • When bacteria enter the bursa through a cut or abrasion, leading to infected bursitis.

5. Medical Conditions

   • Diseases like gout or rheumatoid arthritis can also cause bursitis.

 Symptoms of Elbow Bursitis

• Swelling over the tip of the elbow

• Pain or tenderness, especially when pressure is applied

• Redness or warmth in the area (possible sign of infection)

• Restricted range of motion

• In case of infection: fever, pus, or drainage from the elbow

 Diagnosis

Doctors usually diagnose elbow bursitis through:

• Physical Examination

• Medical History Review

• X-rays or Ultrasound (to rule out fractures or abscesses)

• Aspiration of fluid from the bursa (especially if infection is suspected)

 Treatment Options

✅ Conservative Management

• Rest & Ice: Reduces swelling and pain.

• Elbow Pads: Protects the area and avoids further irritation.

• Anti-inflammatory medications: Like ibuprofen or naproxen.

• Compression wraps: To control swelling.

• Avoid pressure on the affected elbow.

 Medical Treatments

• Aspiration: Removing fluid from the swollen bursa with a needle.

• Antibiotics: If infection is present.

• Corticosteroid injections: To reduce severe inflammation.

• Surgery: In rare, persistent cases when other treatments fail.

 How to Prevent Elbow Bursitis

• Avoid leaning on hard surfaces for long periods.

• Use padded elbow supports when working or exercising.

• Warm up before repetitive arm activities.

• Treat underlying conditions like gout or arthritis.

• Keep the skin around the elbow clean and protected from cuts or scrapes.

 Final Thoughts

Elbow bursitis is usually manageable with rest and care, but it shouldn't be ignored — especially if signs of infection appear. Early intervention helps avoid complications and get you back to pain-free movement faster.

If symptoms persist or worsen, don’t hesitate to seek medical advice. The sooner it's treated, the easier the recovery.
 

 Credible References

1. Mayo Clinic – Bursitis
   https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/bursitis

2. Cleveland Clinic – Olecranon Bursitis
   https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/14511-bursitis

3. Johns Hopkins Medicine – Elbow Problems
   https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/elbow-problems

4. American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS)
   https://orthoinfo.aaos.org/en/diseases--conditions/elbow-bursitis/

5. MedlinePlus – Bursitis
   https://medlineplus.gov/bursitis.html