Elbow Bursitis
Elbow Bursitis Overview
Elbow bursitis is inflammation of the elbow bursa—a fluid filled sac that cushions the elbow joint. An appointment with a Carolina Orthopaedic and Neurosurgical Associates (CONA) elbow specialist should be made when elbow bursitis symptoms are experienced.
Symptoms & Causes
Elbow bursitis symptoms include:
- Pain
- Redness
- Swelling
- Warmness
Elbow bursitis causes are:
- A direct fall on the elbow
- A direct blow to the elbow
- Infection
- Medical conditions (rheumatoid arthritis, gout)
- Prolonged pressure (i.e. prolonged leaning on the elbow)
Common Treatments:
Nonsurgical treatment options treat the overwhelming majority of elbow bursitis cases. After a thorough evaluation, a CONA elbow specialist may recommend:
- Activity changes or modifications
- Antibiotics
- Elbows pads
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs)
If bursitis symptoms do not improve, a CONA specialist may be recommended removing fluid from the joint. In rare cases, an infected bursa may need to be surgically removed.
Diagnosis:
A CONA elbow specialist makes an accurate elbow bursitis diagnosis. First, a discussion about the patient’s condition and symptoms takes place. Next, a thorough physical examination is performed. If needed, x-rays are taken to rule out a fracture. Sometime, a small fluid sample may be collected and tested in a laboratory.