Olecranon bursitis

Olecranon Bursitis Treatment

Overview
Olecranon bursitis is a condition characterized by inflammation of the bursa located over the bony tip of the elbow (the olecranon). The bursa is a small, fluid-filled sac that helps reduce friction and allows smooth movement between bones and soft tissues. When inflamed, this bursa can swell significantly, causing pain, tenderness, and visible swelling at the back of the elbow. This condition is often caused by prolonged pressure on the elbow, trauma, repetitive movements, infections, or underlying medical conditions like gout or rheumatoid arthritis.

Causes & Risk Factors
The most common cause of olecranon bursitis is prolonged or repetitive pressure on the elbow, such as resting the elbows on hard surfaces. Other causes include:

• Trauma: A direct blow to the elbow can trigger inflammation.

• Repetitive Motion: Activities like lifting, pushing, or crawling on the elbows.

• Infection: A cut, scrape, or puncture near the elbow can introduce bacteria into the bursa.

• Medical Conditions: Gout, rheumatoid arthritis, or kidney disease can increase risk.

Symptoms
Typical signs of olecranon bursitis include:

• Swelling at the back of the elbow, which may develop gradually or suddenly.

• Pain or tenderness, especially when leaning on the elbow.

• Limited range of motion.

• Redness and warmth if infection is present.

• Visible lump or fluid-filled sac.

Diagnosis
A physical examination is usually sufficient for diagnosis. However, to rule out infection or underlying joint issues, a healthcare provider may:

• Aspirate fluid from the bursa for laboratory analysis.

• Recommend X-rays or ultrasound imaging.

• Order blood tests in chronic or recurrent cases.

Treatment Options
Treatment for olecranon bursitis depends on the cause and severity:

1. Conservative Treatment

   • Rest and Activity Modification: Avoid pressure on the elbow.

   • Ice Application: Reduces inflammation and swelling.

   • Compression and Elbow Pads: Help prevent further irritation.

   • NSAIDs: Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (like ibuprofen) relieve pain and swelling.

2. Aspiration

   • Involves draining fluid from the swollen bursa using a needle to reduce discomfort and aid diagnosis.

3. Antibiotic Therapy

   • If infection is present, antibiotics are prescribed based on culture results.

4. Corticosteroid Injections

   • In non-infectious cases, steroid injections can significantly reduce inflammation.

5. Surgical Intervention

   • In chronic, recurrent, or severe cases that don’t respond to conservative treatment, surgical removal of the bursa (bursectomy) may be recommended.

Rehabilitation & Prevention
After treatment, physiotherapy can help restore mobility and prevent recurrence. Preventative strategies include:

• Using protective elbow pads.

• Avoiding prolonged pressure on the elbows.

• Practicing good hygiene to avoid infections.

• Managing underlying health conditions like gout or RA.

Why Choose Us?
Our clinic offers specialized care for musculoskeletal conditions like olecranon bursitis. With a team of experienced physiotherapists and orthopedic professionals, we provide individualized treatment plans, ensuring a swift and safe recovery. We combine manual therapy, modern diagnostic tools, and patient education to deliver optimal outcomes.