Olecranon Bursitis

The elbow bone is called the olecranon, which is covered by the olecranon bursa, a small fluid-filled sac that allows smooth movement between the bone and overlying skin. Inflammation of this bursa leads to a condition called olecranon bursitis. Olecranon bursitis is a painful condition and it may affect the functioning of the patient.​

Causes of Olecranon Bursitis

trauma or simply leaning on the elbow

infection through puncture wounds or insect bites

rheumatology conditions like Gout or Rheumatoid Arthritis

people in certain occupations such as plumbing or air conditioning technicians which involve a lot of crawling on the elbows are highly prone to this condition.​

How is Olecranon Bursitis diagnosed

What are the treatments for an Olecranon Bursitis?

The primary goal in treating a bursitis are focused on resolving the inflammation and pain.  If bursitis is caused by an infection your doctor may recommend removal of fluid from the bursa with a needle and prescribe antibiotics.

Rest is advised and any rigorous activities causing the bursitis pain are restricted .

Elbow bursitis not caused from infections can be treated with an elbow pad to cushion your elbows, avoiding activities that place direct pressure on the swollen elbow, taking anti-inflammatory medications to reduce swelling, or injection of corticosteroid medication directly into the bursa to relieve pain and swelling. These nonsurgical treatments provide relief from hip bursitis in most cases.​

Surgery​

Sometimes, however, if the bursa is enlarging or too painful, your doctor may recommend surgical removal of the bursa if you do not respond to conservative treatment measures.

Conclusion