Elbow Bursitis
Elbow bursitis is the condition that causes fluid to collect in a sac (the olecranon bursa) that lies behind the elbow. A bursa is a slippery, sac-like tissue that is designed to allow smooth movement around bony prominences, such as the point behind the elbow. If a bursa becomes inflamed, the sac then fills with fluid. This can cause a noticeable swelling as well as considerable pain behind the elbow.
Treatment
The most common treatment for elbow bursitis is generally best accomplished with these few simple steps:
*Draining the bursa: The initial procedure for treatment is accomplished by the draining of the fluid from the swollen bursa. This is performed in the physician’s office using a needle to aspirate (draw out) the fluid from the swollen bursa. The physician will first sterilize the skin around the swollen elbow bursa, and then place a needle into the area of inflammation. By removing the excess fluid, most patients often experience a significant feeling of relief from the symptoms.
*Cortisone Injections: After removing the excess fluid, your doctor may often administer a cortisone injection into the bursa. Cortisone will suppress the inflammatory response to increase the chance of lasting solution.
*Rest: It is advised that patients with elbow bursitis should get plenty of rest and carefully protect their elbow until the elbow bursitis has been treated completely. Generally, no special bracing or protection is required and simply avoiding lifting, strenuous activity, and pressure on the elbow will allow the inflammation to subside.
In addition, some of the following steps may be done:
*Anti-inflammatory Medications: An oral anti-inflammatory medication is also commonly prescribed. These medications are most helpful with the pain that is caused by elbow bursitis, but they may also help control some of the inflammation.
*Brief immobilization: Although usually not necessary, immobilization with a splint may prove to be helpful with some patients. However, caution should always be used with immobilization as a stiff (frozen) elbow joint can easily develop. Immobilization beyond a few days is usually avoided and some gentle motion of the elbow joint is encouraged.
*Surgery. Surgery can be necessary in chronic cases. |
