What Is Elbow Bursitis: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment Insights

What is Elbow Bursitis?

Elbow bursitis is a common type of bursitis where the bursa, a thin sac filled with fluid, located at the back of the elbow becomes irritated or inflamed, leading to swelling and pain. In most cases, bursitis does not inherently cause pain. However, discomfort may arise if the bursa undergoes infection, leading to symptoms such as tenderness, redness, or warmth in the affected area. Certain medical conditions, like rheumatoid arthritis and gout, have been linked to elbow bursitis.

Anatomy of the Elbow

The elbow joint consists of bones, muscles, tendons, and bursae. The olecranon bursa, positioned between the skin and the tip of the elbow bone (olecranon), acts as a cushion to reduce friction during movement. Elbow bursitis occurs when this bursa becomes inflamed due to various factors.

What Causes Elbow Bursitis?

Elbow bursitis can be caused by various factors, including:

• Repetitive Pressure: Prolonged activities that involve putting pressure on the elbows, such as resting the elbow on a hard surface or frequent leaning during work or sports, can lead to irritation and inflammation of the bursa. The repeated pressure can aggravate the bursa, causing it to swell and become painful.
• Trauma: Direct impact or repetitive trauma to the back of the elbow can also trigger bursitis. Activities like hitting the elbow against a hard surface or experiencing repetitive strain during certain sports or manual labor can lead to inflammation of the bursa.
• Infection: Bursitis can sometimes occur as a result of bacterial infection, particularly if the bursa is punctured or injured. Infections can lead to a condition known as infected olecranon bursitis, where the bursa becomes inflamed and filled with pus. This can result from a cut or puncture wound that exposes the bursa to bacteria, causing it to become infected and inflamed.

Risk Factors for Elbow Bursitis

• Occupational Hazards: People with occupations or hobbies that involve frequent elbow pressure, such as plumbers, carpenters, or athletes, are at higher risk.
• Previous Elbow Injury: Individuals with a history of elbow injuries or surgeries may have an increased susceptibility to elbow bursitis.

Symptoms of Elbow Bursitis

Common Symptoms:

• Swelling at the back of the elbow.
• Pain and tenderness around the swollen area.
• Limited range of motion in the elbow joint.

Rare Symptoms:

• Redness and warmth over the swollen area.
• Fever or chills in case of infected bursitis.

Diagnosis of Elbow Bursitis

To diagnose elbow bursitis, a physician will perform:

• Initial Assessment: Evaluate the patient’s medical history and symptoms.
• Physical Examination: Assess the elbow for swelling, tenderness, and range of motion.
• Additional Tests: In some cases, imaging tests like X-rays or ultrasound may be recommended to rule out other conditions or complications.

How to Treat Bursitis of The Elbow

Treatment options for elbow bursitis include:

Common Treatments for Elbow Bursitis:

1. Rest and Immobilization:

• Resting the affected elbow and avoiding activities that exacerbate symptoms is crucial in the early stages of treatment.
• Immobilizing the elbow with a splint or brace can help reduce pressure on the bursa and promote healing.

2. Pain Management:

• Over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help alleviate pain and discomfort associated with elbow bursitis.
• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may be prescribed to reduce inflammation and swelling.

3. Fluid Removal (Aspiration):

• In cases of severe or infected bursitis, the inflamed bursa may need to be drained to reduce the pain and swelling.
• This procedure involves inserting a needle into the swollen bursa to withdraw fluid, which can help alleviate pain and pressure.

4. Physical Therapy:

• Following the acute phase of inflammation, a physical therapy program may be initiated to restore strength, flexibility, and range of motion in the affected elbow.
• Physical therapists can provide tailored exercises and techniques to improve function and prevent recurrence.

Rare Treatments for Elbow Bursitis:

1. Surgical Intervention:

• In cases where conservative treatments fail to provide relief or if there are underlying structural issues contributing to bursitis, surgical intervention may be considered to remove the infected bursa.
• Surgical options may include bursectomy (removal of the bursa) or surgical repair of underlying conditions such as bone spurs.

2. Elbow Padding:

• Using cushioned elbow pads or cushions to reduce pressure on the bursa and protect the elbow from further irritation is less common but may be recommended in specific cases.

3. Activity Modification:

• Making modifications to daily activities or sports that exacerbate elbow bursitis can be less commonly advised but can still play a role in managing symptoms and preventing flare-ups.

Complications of Elbow Bursitis

Frequent Complications:

• Recurrence of bursitis after treatment.
• Chronic inflammation leading to thickening of the bursa (chronic olecranon bursitis).

Occasional Complications:

• Infection spreading to surrounding tissues if left untreated.
• Formation of bone spurs around the affected area.

Preventing and Managing Elbow Bursitis

To prevent and manage elbow bursitis:

• Avoid Excessive Pressure: Minimize activities that put repetitive pressure on the elbows.
• Use Protective Gear: Wear elbow pads or cushioning during activities prone to elbow injury.
• Maintain Good Posture: Practice proper ergonomics to reduce strain on the elbows.

When to Seek Medical Attention

If you experience persistent elbow pain, swelling, or difficulty moving your elbow, it is advisable to consult a doctor promptly. Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent complications and promote faster recovery.

Frequently Asked Questions

Below are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions on elbow bursitis.

I noticed swelling at the back of my elbow. Should I get it checked up?

Yes, swelling at the back of the elbow could indicate elbow bursitis, especially if accompanied by pain and limited mobility.

What exercises help with my elbow bursitis?

Gentle stretching and strengthening exercises prescribed by a physical therapist can aid in elbow bursitis recovery.

How often do I need to do exercises?

Follow the exercise regimen recommended by your physical therapist, usually several times a week.

How did I get elbow bursitis?

Elbow bursitis can result from repetitive pressure, trauma, or bacterial infection of the bursa.

Is it OK to walk/run with elbow bursitis?

Depending on the severity of symptoms, low-impact exercises like walking may be permissible, but it’s best to consult a healthcare professional.

How long will elbow bursitis last?

With proper treatment and management, elbow bursitis symptoms typically improve within a few weeks.

In conclusion, elbow bursitis can cause discomfort and limit elbow function, but with timely diagnosis, appropriate treatment, and preventive measures, individuals can effectively manage this condition and resume their daily activities with ease.