Elbow Bursitis

Elbow Bursitis Overview

Elbow bursitis is inflammation of the elbow bursa—a fluid filled sac that cushions the elbow joint. An appointment with a Carolina Orthopaedic and Neurosurgical Associates (CONA) elbow specialist should be made when elbow bursitis symptoms are experienced.

Symptoms & Causes

Elbow bursitis symptoms include:

• Pain

• Redness

• Swelling

• Warmness

Elbow bursitis causes are:

• A direct fall on the elbow

• A direct blow to the elbow

• Infection

• Medical conditions (rheumatoid arthritis, gout)

• Prolonged pressure (i.e. prolonged leaning on the elbow)

Common Treatments:

Nonsurgical treatment options treat the overwhelming majority of elbow bursitis cases. After a thorough evaluation, a CONA elbow specialist may recommend:

• Activity changes or modifications

• Antibiotics

• Elbows pads

• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs)

If bursitis symptoms do not improve, a CONA specialist may be recommended removing fluid from the joint. In rare cases, an infected bursa may need to be surgically removed.

Diagnosis:

A CONA elbow specialist makes an accurate elbow bursitis diagnosis. First, a discussion about the patient’s condition and symptoms takes place. Next, a thorough physical examination is performed. If needed, x-rays are taken to rule out a fracture. Sometime, a small fluid sample may be collected and tested in a laboratory.