Elbow bursitis, medically known as olecranon bursitis, occurs when the small, fluid-filled sac (bursa) at the tip of your elbow becomes inflamed. The bursa acts as a cushion between the skin and the underlying bone (olecranon), allowing smooth movement and reducing friction.
When this bursa becomes irritated—due to repetitive pressure, trauma, or infection—it can swell noticeably, causing discomfort and limited movement.
At Dr. Burke Orthopedics, we specialize in diagnosing and treating elbow bursitis using evidence-based, minimally invasive care. Serving Pearland, Houston, Friendswood, and Southeast Texas, Dr. Robert L. Burke provides compassionate, personalized treatment to restore comfort, mobility, and confidence.
There are more than 150 bursae throughout the human body, but the olecranon bursa is one of the most commonly affected.
Normally, this bursa contains a small amount of lubricating fluid. However, repeated irritation or trauma can cause it to fill with excess fluid, leading to swelling and inflammation. In some cases, the fluid may become infected (known as septic bursitis), requiring prompt medical attention.
Common Causes and Risk Factors
Elbow bursitis can occur suddenly from trauma or gradually due to repetitive strain.
Common causes include:
- Prolonged pressure: Leaning on hard surfaces (desks, machinery, countertops).
- Direct injury: A fall or blow to the elbow.
- Infection: Cuts, scrapes, or puncture wounds near the elbow that introduce bacteria into the bursa.
- Medical conditions: Gout, rheumatoid arthritis, or kidney disease can increase inflammation risk.
- Overuse: Repetitive motion from work, sports, or hobbies.
Risk factors:
- Frequent kneeling or leaning on elbows at work (mechanics, students, plumbers).
- Previous elbow injury or surgery.
- Systemic inflammatory disorders.
- Weak shoulder or wrist stabilizers
- Poor wound care after minor elbow abrasions.
Symptoms vary depending on whether the bursitis is caused by overuse, trauma, or infection.
Common symptoms include:
- Visible swelling or “lump” over the back of the elbow.
- Tenderness or warmth around the joint.
- Pain when bending or resting on the elbow.
- Redness or heat, suggesting infection.
- Limited motion due to swelling or discomfort.
- In severe or infected cases, fever or chills may occur.
While bursitis is often painless in early stages, untreated swelling can restrict movement and lead to complications.
At Dr. Burke Orthopedics, Dr. Robert L. Burke performs a thorough evaluation to confirm the diagnosis and rule out infection, gout, or other conditions that mimic bursitis.
Diagnostic process includes:
- Medical history: Evaluating occupational habits, injuries, or repetitive pressure.
- Physical examination: Assessing swelling, tenderness, and warmth.
Imaging studies:
- X-rays: Rule out fractures or bone spurs.
- Ultrasound: Visualizes fluid buildup and inflammation.
Lab testing:
- If infection is suspected, a small sample of fluid may be aspirated (removed with a needle) and analyzed for bacteria or crystals.
Early diagnosis allows for effective treatment before chronic inflammation develops.
Treatment focuses on reducing inflammation, resolving swelling, and addressing any underlying cause (such as infection or repetitive stress).
Non-Surgical Treatments
Non-Surgical Treatments
- Activity modification: Avoiding pressure or repetitive movement that aggravates the elbow.
- Compression: Elastic wraps or sleeves help limit swelling.
- Ice therapy: Reduces inflammation and discomfort.
- Anti-inflammatory medication: Provides pain relief and reduces swelling.
- Gentle range-of-motion exercises prevent stiffness.
- Strengthening forearm and shoulder muscles supports long-term recovery.
- Platelet-rich plasma injections may promote tissue healing and reduce chronic inflammation.
Aspiration (fluid drainage): Performed under sterile conditions to relieve pressure and iscomfort.
In cases of infected bursitis, Dr. Burke prescribes antibiotics and closely monitors healing progress.
Surgical Treatments
When bursitis becomes chronic, recurrent, or resistant to conservative care, surgery may be needed.
Dr. Burke offers minimally invasive procedures for faster recovery and lasting results:
- Bursectomy: Removal of the thickened or infected bursa to eliminate recurrent swelling.
- Reconstructive Surgery: For complex or post-infectious cases requiring tissue repair.
Surgical care is performed with precision to restore normal function while minimizing recurrence risk.
Recovery and Rehabilitation
Recovery depends on whether treatment was conservative or surgical.
Typical recovery timelines:
- Non-surgical: 2–4 weeks for most cases.
- After bursectomy: 6–8 weeks for full healing and motion restoration.
Rehabilitation goals:
- Reduce pain and swelling.
- Restore comfortable movement and flexibility.
- Prevent stiffness and scar tissue formation.
- Address contributing habits or activities to prevent recurrence.
With proper care, patients typically return to full function quickly and without lasting effects.
Long-Term Outlook and Prevention
Elbow bursitis generally responds well to early, non-surgical treatment. However, chronic irritation or untreated infection can lead to repeated flare-ups.
Prevention tips:
- Avoid leaning on hard surfaces for long periods.
- Use elbow pads or cushioning at work.
- Keep the skin clean and protect against cuts or scrapes.
- Maintain healthy joint mobility with gentle stretching.
- Seek care early if swelling or redness appears.
Simple changes in posture and activity can greatly reduce recurrence.
When to Seek Medical Care
You should seek orthopedic evaluation if:
- The elbow is swollen, red, or warm to the touch.
- You notice rapidly increasing swelling or fever.
- Pain limits daily activity or work.
- Swelling recurs frequently despite rest and ice.
Prompt diagnosis and treatment help prevent infection or joint damage.
Take the First Step Toward Recovery
If you notice swelling or discomfort in your elbow, professional care can provide relief and peace of mind.
At Dr. Burke Orthopedics, we provide advanced, compassionate treatment for elbow bursitis, from conservative care to minimally invasive surgical options.
We proudly serve Pearland, Houston, Friendswood, and Southeast Texas, helping patients restore pain-free motion and return to normal activity.
Call (713) 436-3488 or Request an Appointment Online to schedule your consultation with Dr. Robert L. Burke, board-certified orthopedic surgeon specializing in elbow and upper-extremity conditions.
