The bursa is a slippery sac between the skin and the bones of the elbow. Elbow, or olecranon, bursitis is the inflammation of bursa sac when it becomes irritated, states the Mayo Clinic. According to the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons (AAOS), swelling is often the first symptom. As the bursa swells, it stretches and causes pain and limitations in movement of the elbow. This condition is usually treated non-surgically; however, surgery may be necessary to remove the bursa. Understanding the causes of elbow bursitis can help prevent the condition.
Trauma
The AAOS states that trauma to the elbow can cause bursitis. A hard blow to the tip of the elbow can cause swelling and inflammation of the bursa sac. This may occur from a fall or during contact in a sport, such as football or basketball. A patient can prevent falls from removing objects from hallways and other area of frequent walking. Additionally, he can take his time when walking to avoid tripping over cracks or tree roots. He can wear elbow pads to further prevent bursitis from contact sports. If he experiences trauma to the elbow, he should see his doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment. The doctor will perform X-rays to make sure that he does not have a fracture in the elbow that might be causing symptoms.
Prolonged Pressure
Excessive leaning on the elbow on hard surfaces can cause elbow bursitis, states the AAOS. This occurs because the bursa is squeezed between the hard surface and the bones in the elbow. This can aggravate the bursa and cause it to swell, which will cause pain and limit movement in the elbow. The AAOS further states that this condition occurs over a few months time. Therefore, a patient can prevent elbow bursitis by avoiding prolonged leaning of the elbow.
Infection
Infection may also cause bursa to become inflamed. The AAOS states that a break in the skin, such as an insect bite or scrape, can cause bacteria to get inside the bursa and cause an infection. A patient should look for excessive fluid, redness or swelling at the tip of the elbow. In this case, he should call his doctor to get the infection under control. Left untreated, the fluid may turn to pus, states the AAOS.
