Elbow Bursitis

What is Elbow Bursitis?

Elbow bursitis, most commonly olecranon bursitis, is inflammation of the bursa: a fluid-filled sac that sits over the bony tip of the elbow (the olecranon). The bursa normally acts as a cushion between the skin and the underlying bone, but when it becomes irritated or inflamed it can fill with fluid. The result is a characteristic soft swelling at the back of the elbow.

The swelling can range from a small, painless lump to a large, tender fluid-filled mass that restricts elbow movement and affects daily function. Accurate diagnosis, in particular ruling out septic (infected) bursitis, is essential before treatment is initiated.

What causes Elbow Bursitis?

• Direct trauma to the elbow tip: a single blow or fall onto a hard surface
• Repetitive pressure on the elbow: leaning on hard surfaces at work or a desk
• Occupational exposure: common in plumbers, gardeners and engineers who work on their hands and knees
• Septic bursitis: infection entering through a skin break or puncture wound over the elbow
• Inflammatory conditions: gout, pseudogout, rheumatoid arthritis
• Idiopathic: no specific cause identified in many cases

Signs & symptoms

• A visible, rounded swelling at the tip of the elbow: may be soft and fluctuant or firm
• Pain and tenderness over the olecranon, particularly with direct pressure
• Warmth and redness over the bursa if inflammation is present
• Restricted ability to bend the elbow if the swelling is large
• In septic bursitis: significant pain, warmth, erythema and systemic features including fever
• Recurrent swelling following activity or pressure on the elbow

How Hand Therapy can help

Ms Razo provides specialist assessment and evidence-based treatment for Elbow Bursitis. Following a thorough initial assessment, a personalised treatment plan will be developed to address your specific needs and goals.

Frequently asked questions

How do I know if my elbow bursitis is infected?

Septic (infected) bursitis requires urgent medical treatment with antibiotics and often aspiration or surgical drainage. Signs that suggest infection include rapidly increasing pain and swelling, significant warmth and redness spreading beyond the elbow, fever and the presence of a recent skin wound or abrasion near the elbow tip. If you have any of these features, seek urgent medical assessment rather than waiting for a Hand Therapy appointment.

Will elbow bursitis go away on its own?

Non-infected (aseptic) olecranon bursitis often resolves with non-operative measures over several weeks to months. Recurrence is common if the originating cause is not addressed.

Can I still use my arm with elbow bursitis?

Yes. Most daily activities can be continued with elbow bursitis, provided the elbow is protected from direct pressure. Heavy loading or contact activities that risk trauma to the elbow tip should be avoided while the bursa is acutely inflamed.

Does elbow bursitis always need to be drained?

No. Many cases of non-infected olecranon bursitis resolve without aspiration. Aspiration is considered when the swelling is large and causing significant discomfort, or when infection needs to be ruled out. The recurrence rate following aspiration alone is relatively high, which is why addressing the underlying cause of the bursitis is important.