Elbow bursitis is an inflammation
of the fluid filled sac that sits on the outside of the elbow to
protect it. Elbow bursitis occurs when the bursa sac becomes irritated
or inflamed. The pain associated with bursitis of the elbow can
range from minor pain or irritation to the skin surrounding the
elbow, to redness with accompanied swelling that may feel like liquid
surrounding the elbow.
Causes of Elbow Bursitis:
The actual causes of elbow bursitis vary, but the most common causes
are:
Direct impact or blow to the elbow
Prolonged or repeated leaning on the affected
elbow
Repetitive motion that may be associated
with sports
Infection
Underlying condition
Treatments for Elbow Bursitis:
The first thing you should do to treat your elbow bursitis is to
isolate the area with a brace to protect it from movement that could
further irritate the bursa. You should then apply hot and cold compresses
to the area to lower the swelling, combined with an over the counter
non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medication (NSAID), such as ibuprofen.
If the pain persists, and you are unable to alleviate it within
two to three weeks, you should contact your physician. He or she
will determine if there may be an underlying condition that is causing
your pain, or if there is a more appropriate form of treatment that
can help alleviate your symptoms, such as a cortisone shot to the
affected area.
