Bursitis is an inflammation of the bursa. Bursa is a small sac filled with fluid located in the joints which reduces the friction between the moving parts of the joints. Healthy bursa sacs of the elbows are smooth and flat. They hold just enough amount of fluid to allow the bones to slide smoothly when the arm is moved.
Elbow bursitis is also known as olecranon bursitis, sometimes even as Popeye elbow. It is one of the most common types of bursitis. Elbow bursitis is an inflammation of the bursa in the elbow. The olecranon bursa develops usually after the age of 7. They are composed of a thin outer membrane which is called synovium and synovial fluid, located on the inner side. When this synovium gets irritated and inflamed, bursitis occurs.
Signs and symptoms of elbow bursitis include:
- Pain on the affected elbow, especially while moving it
- Swelling of the affected elbow – a tender lump may be felt while palpating the elbow due to increased fluid.
- Redness of the affected elbow
- Warm skin over the elbow
- Fever and chills
- Swollen lymph nodes in the armpit due to an infection, etc.
