Olecranon Bursitis
A bursa is a small sac of fluid (like a water balloon) that exists between a soft tissue structure (such as skin, tendons or ligaments) and the underlying bone. The function of the bursa is to aide the tissue to glide easily. Olecranon bursitis is the inflammation of the bursa, between the skin and the point of the elbow. Causes for olecranon bursitis can be due to: direct trauma to the elbow, a fall directly onto the elbow, repetitive pressure on the point of the elbow and rarely an infection. Symptoms of olecranon bursitis are characterized by swelling, sharp pain and tenderness over the point of the elbow. The skin overlying the elbow may be swollen and warm to the touch. Patients often describe difficulty with placing pressure on the elbow. The diagnosis of olecranon bursitis can be made by physical examination by a physician and reliably confirmed with an MRI.
Recommendations:
- Consult a physician if you think you have olecranon bursitis
- Acute treatment starts with reduction of inflammation - RICE regimen (Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation).
- Acute treatment starts with reduction of inflammation - RICE regimen (Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation).
- Avoiding overuse and direct pressure over the point of the elbow is important, as is modifying the specific offending activity
- Rest is the most important part of the treatment program for olecranon bursitis.
- Use Elbow Supports and Protective Elbow Pads