Elbow Bursitis - Care Guide

Elbow bursitis, medically termed as olecranon bursitis, is a painful condition that affects the olecranon bursae. It is the inflammation in the bursae, the pad-like sac of fluid that sits beneath the elbow to protect the tissues from friction and support movement of tendons, muscles and bones over bony surfaces. When left untreated, elbow bursitis will not cause joint deformity but it comes with debilitating and painful symptoms that will restrict movement and affect overall health.

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Elbow bursitis results from overused elbows. It is usually experienced by individuals playing sports like tennis, which can send the elbow muscles and joints to its limits, hence the term elbow bursitis. Also, accidents like falls and blunt blows over the elbow bursae can cause mild to deep bursitis.

Elbow Bursitis Symptoms

Tenderness and pain over the elbow area are the most common symptoms of elbow bursitis. Pain is usually worsened by movement so this condition may result to limited or loss of motion in the elbow area. Stiffness, reddening of the skin and swelling around the area of the elbow may be experienced. Aside from localized pain, the affected area usually feels warm to the touch. Symptoms usually appear suddenly. It may be experienced after exercise or after doing strenuous physical activities.

Elbow Bursitis Causes

Physically demanding activities that involve excessive force usually result to elbow bursitis. Actions that repeatedly lean, bend and extend the elbows, like swinging a gold club or tennis racket, is another common cause of this condition. This condition is commonly suffered by individuals whose occupation, sports and daily activities involve repetitive or strenuous elbow movements. Elbow movements are performed awkwardly put undue pressure over the elbow bursae. Also, this condition may be caused by the trauma, acute or chronic infection or crystal deposits near the elbow area. Inflammatory conditions could result in gout and rheumatoid arthritis.

Elbow Bursitis Diagnosis

The diagnosis of elbow bursitis involves the evaluation of the patient’s medical history, x-rays, blood test, ultrasound and physical examinations. A careful physical examination is performed to determine the affected type of movement and locate the swollen areas. Diagnosis may also require taking a sample of fluid from the inflamed bursa if infection is suspected. The fluid is sent to the laboratory for culture, gram stain, cell count and other tests. Tests like x-ray, ultrasound, blood tests and other fluid tests are performed to study or rule out the possibility of infections and other conditions that may be linked to the patient’s symptoms.

Elbow Bursitis Treatment

Elbow bursitis treatment will depend on the cause of the inflammation. In most cases, a combination of orthodox and alternative forms treatment are used to ensure recovery. A combination of natural and holistic treatment may be recommended to help alleviate symptoms and initiate the healing process. Natural forms of therapy such as homeopathy, hydrotherapy, aromatherapy and the use of herbs may be used to naturally manage painful and chronic symptoms. Holistic treatment often involves healthy dieting and helpful vitamin supplements like glucosamine supplements to support cartilage repair, maintain joint mobility and promote overall well-being.

Physical therapy that involves correction of posture and joint strengthening and protection promotes good bone, muscle and tendon alignment, which effectively decreases the stress on the elbow. This may be done using braces or splints as well as gentle mobilizing exercises. Other therapies like osteopathy, massage, chiropractic and applies kinesiology are also helpful in correcting this musculoskeletal problem.

In addition to pain-killing and anti-inflammatory drugs, herbal and homeopathic remedies may be used to treat elbow bursitis. In case of severe and chronic pain, patients are administered with anti-inflammatory medications or corticosteroid injections. With the presence of infection, antibiotic treatment may be prescribed. With homeopathy, herbs like ginger Boswellia, white willow, turmeric and Devil’s claw are used for their naturally potent anti-inflammatory properties, which are highly effective in treating joint conditions.

With the right treatment, elbow bursitis symptoms may be gone within seven to 14 days. However, it will be wise to consult your physician before starting any treatment regimen.

Elbow Bursitis Prevention

Healthy and active lifestyle is the key to preventing the pain and hassles of elbow bursitis. Avoid smoking because smoking weakens collagen production, which is crucial in maintaining elbow flexibility and strength. When you are engaged in active sports or that the course of your occupation involves elbow movement, make sure that you are properly warmed up before doing your activities. Regularly exercise your elbows. A regimen of elbow muscle stretching and strengthening exercises as well as cool down exercises before doing physical activities will not only keep you in shape but minimize your risk of injuring your elbow bursae. Also, to avoid overusing your elbow, take regular breaks to allow your elbow to rest. Practice good posture and refrain from leaning on your elbows for long periods of time. With sports and heavy labor, elbow pads may be necessary to properly protect and support your elbow joints. If you happen to experience an episode of elbow bursitis, have it immediate checked by your physician to seek proper and immediate treatment.