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Everyday movements can become painful when your elbow feels stiff or tender. Simple tasks like lifting a coffee cup, resting your arm on a table, or playing with your kids can suddenly start to hurt.
These symptoms often happen because of elbow bursitis. The condition can develop from repeated pressure, minor injuries, or infection in the arm.
At Resilience Orthopedics, Dr. Pamela Mehta creates a personalized treatment plan. Her goal is to relieve your discomfort, support healing, and help you stay active.
Book a Consultation with Dr. Pamela Mehta, MD
The Best Orthopedic Surgeon in San Jose
Dr. Mehta is a board-certified orthopedic surgeon who can help you recover from your joint condition. If you:
- Are Suffering From Pain and Mobility Issues
- Need Orthopedic Assessment and Advice
- Want Treatment From a Top Orthopedic Doctor
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What is Elbow Bursitis?
Elbow bursitis, also called olecranon bursitis, is the inflammation of a small, fluid-filled sac at the tip of your elbow, called the bursa. This sac cushions the bone and skin, allowing smooth movement over the joint.
When the bursa becomes irritated or inflamed, it fills with extra fluid. This leads to swelling, tenderness, and pain.
What Causes Elbow Bursitis?
Elbow bursitis may appear after sudden injuries or from repeated stress over time. Common triggers include:
- Prolonged pressure on the tip of the elbow
- A sudden hit or trauma to the tip of the elbow
- Activities that require frequent bending and straightening of the elbow
- Infection
- Conditions, such as gout, thyroid disease, diabetes, or rheumatoid arthritis
What are the Symptoms of Elbow Bursitis?
Common elbow bursitis symptoms include:
- Swelling, often appearing as a noticeable, soft lump or “goose egg” on the tip of the elbow
- Pain or tenderness, especially when pressing on the elbow or bending the elbow
- Redness and warmth
- Difficulty bending or straightening the arm fully
- Limited range of motion
Diagnosis and Treatment
At Resilience Orthopedics, we believe healing starts with understanding the “why” behind your pain. Dr. Mehta pays close attention to your experience, understanding both the cause of your injury and the challenges it brings to your day.
Once she has a complete view of your situation, she creates a personalized treatment plan to support your long-term elbow health.
How Do We Diagnose Elbow Bursitis?
To evaluate your elbow and determine the cause of your symptoms, Dr. Mehta will discuss your symptoms, occupation, hobbies, and any recent injuries or trauma.
She may also use the following:
- Physical examination to check for swelling, tenderness, and range of motion.
- X-rays to rule out bone fractures or bone spurs.
- Aspiration (fluid sample), which may be used to draw fluid from the swollen bursa and check for infection or gout.
How Do We Treat Elbow Bursitis?
Treatment depends on the cause and severity of inflammation. Dr. Mehta begins with conservative, non-surgical approaches to help your body heal. These may include:
- Activity modification and rest
- Ice application
- Elbow brace or pad
- Over-the-counter or prescription anti-inflammatories
- Aspiration
- Corticosteroid injections
If bursitis does not improve with non-surgical care, surgical options may be considered.
Dr. Mehta recommends surgery only when it is necessary to restore your quality of life. Surgical options include:
- Bursectomy is a minimally invasive procedure to remove the inflamed bursa. The bursa may grow back, but without causing the same pain.
- Bone spur removal involves removing the underlying bony spurs that contribute to chronic inflammation.
No matter which path you take, our team at Resilience Orthopedics guides you through every step. We provide the support you need for recovery.
How Long Will It Take to Recover from Elbow Bursitis?
Your recovery time will depend on the severity of your condition and the treatment needed. With non-surgical care, such as rest and activity changes, you may notice improvement within a few days to a few weeks.
If you need aspiration, injections, or surgery, it may take several weeks for the swelling to fully go down.
How Can I Prevent Elbow Bursitis?
Elbow bursitis is often preventable. You can lower your risk if you:
- Use elbow pads when working on hard surfaces, gardening, or doing home repairs.
- Avoid leaning on your elbows on hard surfaces.
- Give your joints time to rest if your work or hobbies involve repetitive elbow movements.
- Clean cuts or scrapes on your elbow right away to prevent infection.
- Start new exercises that involve the elbow slowly.
Once you’ve had elbow bursitis, you are more likely to get it again. Using an elbow pad during activities that put pressure on your elbows can help reduce the risk of recurrence.
Ready to Recover?
Take the first step in getting back to your normal self, and book an appointment with Dr. Mehta today.
We’re ready when you are!
FAQs
Can I Treat Elbow Bursitis at Home?
Yes. Mild cases often improve with home care. Rest the joint, avoid pressure, apply ice for 15 to 20 minutes two to three times a day, and consider over-the-counter anti-inflammatories.
When Should I See a Doctor for Elbow Bursitis?
You should seek medical attention if you have severe pain, swelling that limits movement, or signs of infection like redness, warmth, or fever. It’s better to visit a doctor if your symptoms do not improve after a week of home treatment.
How Do I Know if My Elbow Bursitis is Infected?
Signs of an infection include redness, warmth, and increasing pain around your elbow. You may also develop a fever or chills. An infected bursa requires immediate medical attention.
