Elbow Bursitis 101: All The Basics You Need To Know In 2023

Elbow pain

If you’re like most people, you probably don’t think about your elbow very often. But did you know that elbow bursitis is a common condition that can cause a lot of pain and discomfort? In this blog post, we will discuss all the basics you need to know about elbow bursitis. We will talk about what it is, how to treat it, and how to prevent it from happening in the first place. So if you’re ready to learn more about this condition, keep reading!

 

What Is Elbow Bursitis?

Elbow bursitis is a condition that occurs when the bursa, a small fluid-filled sac, becomes inflamed. The bursa is located between the skin and the underlying bone. It acts as a cushion to protect the elbow from friction and pressure. When the bursa becomes inflamed, it can cause pain, stiffness, and swelling around the elbow joint.

 

There are two types of elbow bursitis: septic and aseptic. Septic bursitis is caused by an infection, while aseptic bursitis is not. Infections that can cause septic bursitis include bacteria, viruses, and fungi. Aseptic bursitis is usually caused by overuse or repetitive motion.

 

What Are The Symptoms Of Elbow Bursitis?

The most common symptom of elbow bursitis is pain around the elbow joint. This pain may be dull and throbbing or sharp and stabbing. You may also feel stiffness, tenderness, or swelling around the elbow. The pain may get worse when you move your elbow or press on it.

 

If the bursa becomes infected, you may also have a fever, redness, and warmth around the elbow. You may also feel sick and have a general feeling of fatigue.

 

What Causes Elbow Bursitis?

Elbow bursitis is usually caused by overuse or repetitive motion. This can happen if you do the same activity over and over again, such as tennis, golf, or throwing a baseball. It can also be caused by an injury, such as a fall, that results in direct pressure on the elbow.

 

In some cases, elbow bursitis is caused by an infection. This is more likely to happen if you have a cut or scrape near the elbow that becomes infected. Infections that can cause septic bursitis include bacteria, viruses, and fungi.

Who Is At Risk For Elbow Bursitis?

There are several factors that can increase your risk for elbow bursitis, including:

  • Age: Elbow bursitis is more common in adults over the age of 40.
  • Gender: Women are more likely to develop elbow bursitis than men.
  • Obesity: Being overweight or obese can put extra pressure on the elbow and increase your risk for bursitis.
  • Joint Problems: If you have arthritis or another condition that affects the joints, you are more likely to develop bursitis.
  • Repeated Motion: Doing the same activity over and over again can put extra stress on the elbow and lead to bursitis.
  • Injury: An injury to the elbow, such as a fall, can increase your risk for bursitis.

 

How Is Elbow Bursitis Diagnosed?

Your doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history. They will also examine your elbow for swelling, tenderness, or redness. In some cases, an X-ray or MRI may be ordered to rule out other conditions.

 

How Is Elbow Bursitis Treated?

Treatment for elbow bursitis depends on the underlying cause. If the bursa is infected, you will likely need antibiotics to clear the infection. If the bursa is not infected, treatment focuses on reducing pain and inflammation.

  • Rest: You should avoid activities that put stress on the elbow. This will give the bursa time to heal.
  • Ice: Apply ice to the elbow for 20 minutes at a time several times a day. This can help reduce pain and inflammation.
  • Compression: Use an elastic bandage or wrap to compress the elbow. This can also help reduce pain and inflammation.
  • Elevation: Elevate the elbow above the level of your heart to reduce swelling.
  • Anti-Inflammatory Medication: Over-the-counter medication, such as ibuprofen or naproxen, can help reduce pain and inflammation.
  • Corticosteroid Injection: A corticosteroid injection can help reduce pain and inflammation.
  • Surgery: In some cases, surgery may be necessary to remove the bursa. This is usually only done if other treatments have not worked.

 

How Can I Prevent Elbow Bursitis?

There are several things you can do to prevent elbow bursitis, including:

  • Rest: Avoid activities that put stress on the elbow.
  • Ice: Apply ice to the elbow after activity.
  • Compression: Use an elastic bandage or wrap to compress the elbow.
  • Elevation: Elevate the elbow above the level of your heart to reduce swelling.
  • Wearing Proper Gear: Use appropriate equipment when participating in activities, such as tennis or golf.
  • Strength Training: Strengthening the muscles around the elbow can help reduce stress on the joint and prevent bursitis.
  • Stretching: Stretching the muscles and tendons around the elbow can help reduce stress on the joint and prevent bursitis.

 

When Should I See A Doctor?

You should see a doctor if you experience pain, swelling, or redness in the elbow. You should also see a doctor if you have a fever or if the pain is not relieved by home treatment.

 

That’s all for our introduction to elbow bursitis! We hope you found this post helpful. If you have any questions or want more information, please don’t hesitate to contact us. Our team of experts is here to help you get the care and treatment you need so that you can feel your best again. Thanks for reading!

Are You Looking for a Sports Medicine Physician You Can Trust?

 

Dr. Chen sees patients at Saint Francis Memorial Hospital Center for Sports Medicine in Walnut Creek, California. He is a board-certified Pediatrician and Sports Medicine Doctor that specializes in the non-operative medical treatment of a wide variety of various musculoskeletal conditions.  Dr. Chen graduated from St. George’s University School of Medicine and went on to complete Pediatric residency training at the University of Medicine and Dentistry in New Jersey (Rutgers), then went on to fellowship training in Sports Medicine at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, one of the perennially top ranked children’s hospitals in the nation. There he provided sideline coverage for NCAA Division I athletics at the University of Cincinnati and Miami University (OH). Since graduating, Dr. Chen has continued his love of sports coverage by volunteering for the San Francisco Marathon, the San Francisco Giant Race, and as the team physician for Northgate High School in Walnut Creek. Being a part of The Center for Sports Medicine allows Dr. Chen quick access to a multidisciplinary team of orthopedic surgeons, podiatrists, physiatrists, and physical therapists to return you to your highest functional level quickly and safely. Click here to contact us for your next appointment!

 

Previous Article          Home          Next Article