brand-logo

Elbow bursitis

Low urgency
--

Inflammation of the bursa, which is a fluid-filled sac-like cushion in the joint between bones, muscles and tendons. Its purpose is to facilitate movement and reduce friction between them.

It is caused by overuse of the joint or constant pressure on the elbow.

Symptoms include pain and swelling in the elbow.

The diagnosis is made through a clinical interview and examination of the elbow. If there is any doubt about the cause, a puncture and analysis of the synovial fluid may be necessary.

Treatment is based on a combination of rest with analgesics and/or anti-inflammatory drugs and joint protection.

Bibliographic references
  1. Derrick J Todd. Bursitis: An overview of clinical manifestations, diagnosis, and management. UpToDate. Abril 2016
  2. Ho G Jr. Septic bursitis in the prepatellar and olecranon bursae: an analysis of 25 cases. Ann Intern Med 1978; 89:21.
  3. Shell D. Septic olecranon bursitis: recognition and treatment. J Am Board Fam Pract 1995; 8:217.
  4. Smith DL. Treatment of nonseptic olecranon bursitis. A controlled, blinded prospective trial. Arch Intern Med 1989; 149:2527.
  5. Carol A. Langford. Trastornos periarticulares de las extremidades Harrison. Principios de Medicina Interna, 19e. Capítulo 398
Author
Dr. Patricia Sánchez
Copyright
© TeckelMedical 2026

Symptoms

    Elbow pain

    Swollen elbow

    Moving the elbow is difficult

    Swollen limb

    Joint pain both during movement and rest

Symptoms to watch out for

Joint deformity
Fever (temperature higher than 38 ºC)
Pain that doesn't subside with analgesics
Inability to do movements with the joint

Self-care

Consume over-the-counter pain relievers or anti-inflammatories.
Relative rest, rest until symptoms subside.
Apply local cold in the area of the lesion 3 times a day to reduce inflammation.
Avoid doing abrupt movements.
Mediktor logo