Elbow bursitis (olecranon bursitis)
Why is there a soft swelling on the back of my elbow?
Swelling of the fluid-filled sac at the point of the elbow, often from leaning on it or a knock. Infection must be ruled out.
What it feels like
A soft, sometimes tender swelling on the point of the elbow, which may follow leaning on the elbow for long periods, a knock, or occur without an obvious cause.
What is actually happening
The olecranon bursa is a small fluid-filled sac that lets the skin glide over the point of the elbow. Pressure or injury can make it fill with fluid. Sometimes the bursa becomes infected, particularly after a cut or graze, which needs medical treatment.
When to see a doctor urgently
See a doctor the same day if the elbow is red, hot and very painful, if you have a fever or feel unwell, or if there is a cut or wound near the swelling. These can be signs of an infected bursa, which needs antibiotics.
How it is assessed
Assessment includes how it started, signs of infection, elbow movement and strength, and the activities that put pressure on the elbow.
How it is treated
A systematic review of olecranon bursitis treatment found that non-infected bursitis is usually managed conservatively, with protection from pressure, compression and time, while infected bursitis needs medical treatment with antibiotics. Physiotherapy focuses on protecting the elbow, adjusting activities that load it, and maintaining elbow and arm movement and strength.
What to do first
Avoid leaning on the elbow, use padding if you must, and see a doctor promptly if there are any signs of infection.
Where this is assessed
- Athlete's Care Sports Medicine Centres Yonge & Eglinton · Mon/Wed/Fri · 8:00 AM – 2:00 PM Book at Athlete's Care
- Push Pounds Sports Medicine Downtown Toronto · Tue/Thu · 8:30 AM – 6:30 PM Call Push Pounds to book
References
This page is based on the following clinical practice guidelines and research.