The elbow bursa is between the elbow, or olecranon bone, and the skin. A bursa sac acts as a cushion between the skin and bones in the elbow. The American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons (AAOS) states that trauma, prolonged pressure and infection are the most common causes of elbow bursitis. The condition is treated nonsurgically through rest, ice, medications, physical therapy and ultrasound. In more severe cases, a steroid injection or drainage of fluid from the bursa sac may be necessary. A patient with possible bursitis should be aware of the symptoms associated with this condition.
Swelling
According to the AAOS, swelling is often the first symptom associated with elbow bursitis. Swelling may not be noticed immediately, because the skin behind the elbow is loose. When swelling increases, however, a patient will notice an increase in size of the bursa. A patient with a swollen bursa should see his doctor immediately to prevent further complications. He should also apply ice to the bursa or take over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications to reduce swelling.
Pain
A patient with elbow bursitis will likely experience pain at the tip of the elbow, the Mayo Clinic states. This occurs because a swollen bursa can activate nerve endings that send pain signals to the brain. The patient will likely notice pain when touching the bursa sac or when bending or straightening the elbow. In this case, a patient should always see a doctor to rule out a fracture or a more serious cause of elbow pain.
Limited Motion
A swollen bursa sac may limit an elbow's range of motion, including when both flexing and extending the elbow, the AAOS states. This occurs because the swollen bursa sac limits the space available for the elbow bones to move freely. This can limit physical activities or prevent a patient from performing normal daily activities. Prompt diagnosis and treatment is necessary to reduce swelling. A doctor may recommend a steroid injection or drainage to reduce swelling and increase the range of motion of the elbow joint.
Infection
A bursa sac may become infected. A break in the skin near a bursa sac can allow bacteria to enter the bursa sac and cause bursitis. The Mayo Clinic states that a patient should see a doctor if he experiences a hot, red and swollen elbow, in addition to a fever. These are serious signs of an infection and prompt medical treatment is necessary. A patient may need surgery to remove the bursa sac if the infection does not clear with antibiotics.
