Elbow bursitis is a condition that affects the thin, fluid-filled sac (known as a bursa) located at the boney tip of the elbow (also known as the olecranon). It can be a painful, nagging injury that can prevent you from carrying on your daily activities.
There are many bursa sacs in our bodies, acting as cushions between bones and soft tissues (such as the skin or muscles). Bursas contain a lubricating fluid that helps limit rubbing and friction in many joints of the body, such as the elbow and knee.
Normally, bursas resemble small, flattened bags, but when they become inflamed – due to injury, infection, or excessive use of a joint – the bursa sacs swell and accumulate additional fluid that can lead to bursitis.
Medical treatments for elbow bursitis range from surgery for the most severe cases to home self-care. A majority of cases of elbow bursitis may be successfully treated at home, following consultation with your doctor or specialist. The purpose of home treatment for elbow bursitis is to relieve the symptoms of pain and inflammation as much as possible while allowing the natural healing process to take place.
Reducing swelling and pain
Resting the elbow while limiting its use for a few days is perhaps the most important thing you can do to reduce pain and inflammation due to bursitis. Doctors also suggest:
- Ice: Cold packs used on the bursitis area may reduce pain. Ice can be applied several times a day for up to 20 minutes. Icing the area will also help to reduce the swelling that usually accompanies bursitis.
- Compression: Try wrapping your elbow with an elastic medical bandage. Make sure it’s snug, but not overly tight, as this may limit blood flow or place too much pressure in the affected bursa.
- Elevation: While at rest, place your elbow in a comfortable position at a level higher than your heart. This may help reduce the throbbing sensation at the joint.
- Heat: Putting heat (warm, not hot) on the area may help reduce pain and stiffness.
- Medication: Over the counter anti-inflammatory drugs such as aspirin, naproxen, or ibuprofen, may help reduce pain and swelling. In more serious cases, your doctor may prescribe you other, stronger medications.
- Exercise: After a period of rest, and once swelling is reduced, your doctor may recommend moving exercises for the affected joint. These include gentle stretching and light strengthening exercises.
If your elbow bursitis does not improve after a period of rest, your doctor may choose to inject a corticosteroid medicine into the area around the inflamed bursa. If your bursitis does not go away after 6-12 months, your doctor may recommend surgery to repair damage and relieve pressure on your bursa.
If your elbow bursitis was caused by constant, repetitive overuse – such as playing tennis or golf – consider modifying its frequency and the way you perform the activity. Make sure you return to your activity gradually and mindfully. Your doctor or a physical therapist may provide you with tips about how to protect your joints from bursitis while still enjoying an active lifestyle. Also consider using a sports bandage, splint or brace – if possible – while performing the activity. These can provide better alignment for your elbow and limit stress and impact to the joint.
If you have questions about elbow bursitis, contact the expert team at Greater Chesapeake Hand to Shoulder. Since 1987, they’ve diagnosed and treated a host of shoulder, arm, wrist, and elbow conditions. Highly-experienced and board certified, their surgeons will work hard to ensure you achieve optimal results. For more information, or to schedule an appointment, call (410) 296-6232.
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