Symptoms of Elbow Bursitis
When you have olecranon bursitis, the following symptoms will occur:
- Swelling. Typically the first symptom people notice is swelling. At the back of the elbow, the skin may be loose. Therefore, you might not see it. Although as the swelling becomes more apparent, it can resemble a golfball.
- Elbow Pain. When the bursa stretches this causes elbow pain, especially as you bend it. However, some people don’t feel pain at all.
- Warmth or Redness. A sign of infection is warmth and redness. If you notice this around your elbow, the bursa is likely infected.
- Tenderness. Often a sign of sensitivity around the elbow is tenderness.
- Pus. When a bursa is infected, a yellow or white thick cloudy fluid will drain from the bursa.
Treatment Options for Bursitis:
Treatment is about easing your discomfort and taking steps to prevent or cure the infection.
When no infection appears, you can take steps, such as:
- Protecting your elbow. Try wearing elbow pads or a wrap to cushion it.
- Avoid activities that put direct pressure on your affected elbow.
- Take anti-inflammatory pain medication, such as ibuprofen to reduce swelling and pain. Follow your doctor’s directions and read the medicine label carefully.
It’s important to take antibiotics that your doctor prescribes, especially if you have an infection.
Also see, How to Treat Elbow Bursitis.
If there are no improvements within a few weeks, your physician may suggest draining the fluid. Furthermore, an injection of corticosteroid is typical to recommended for inflammation.
If you are experiencing elbow (olecranon) bursitis and you need additional treatment options, call us at 888-409-8006.