Your body has more than 150 bursae. A bursa is a small sac that contains lubricating fluid. It is located between tissues and prevents friction and irritation. Your bursa is essentially why you can move without pain.
The olecranon bursa is located at the tip of your elbow. The olecranon bursa lies flat, and that allows it to provide ample cushioning. If you overuse the elbow or experience trauma, the bursa can become irritated, and that will lead to inflammation. Fluid will accumulate in the sac, preventing it from lying flat. When that happens, you will be diagnosed with bursitis.
Bursitis presents with various symptoms. People usually experience swelling first. It can be difficult to notice the swelling at first due to the loose skin located on the back of the elbow. However, over time, the swelling will become more pronounced.
The swelling causes the bursa to stretch, leading to a significant amount of pain. Bending or placing direct pressure on the elbow makes the pain worse.
Many people also experience a reduced range of motion with bursitis. This is because of the swelling.
The skin might also be red and warm to the touch. This is indicative of an infection, and immediate treatment is needed. An untreated infection can end up in the bloodstream.
We can diagnose and treat your bursitis using minimally invasive techniques. You will have access to your own care team that will help provide treatment modalities designed to facilitate the road to recovery.