Elbow Bursitis Treatment In New Jersey

Bursae (singular, bursa) are closed, fluid-filled sacs that cushion joints, reduce friction, and act as shock absorbers between bones, muscles, tendons, skin, and other tissues in the body. When a bursa becomes irritated due to an injury, medical condition, overuse, or infection, it can become inflamed, causing pain and reducing movement and flexibility. This is known as bursitis.

Elbow bursitis is a common condition that affects the bursa at the tip of the elbow. Characterized by pain, swelling, redness, and reduced range of motion in the elbow joint, it can impact the ability to perform a wide range of motions and tasks, from daily activities to competitive athletics.

If you are living with elbow pain that is restricting the mobility of your arm and making it difficult to work or engage in daily routines, elbow bursitis could be the underlying cause. At Modern Orthopaedics of New Jersey, our world-class specialists possess the expertise to accurately diagnose and effectively treat elbow bursitis, ensuring you are on the fastest road to recovery.

To take the first step toward reducing pain and regaining full use of your arm, contact Modern Orthopaedics of New Jersey today to schedule an appointment!

What Is Elbow Bursitis?

Olecranon bursitis, commonly known as elbow bursitis, is a condition involving swelling and inflammation of the olecranon bursa, which is located at the tip of the elbow. Characterized by pain, redness, and limited range of motion in the elbow joint, the condition is usually manageable with conservative treatment measures but a surgical treatment approach may be recommended in severe cases.

Elbow bursitis can be caused by a variety of different factors including the following:

• Athletic activities that involve repetitive stress or put strain on the elbow
• Overload injuries (heavy lifting)
• Prolonged pressure on the elbow
• Acute injury to the elbow (a direct blow, fall, or accident)
• Infection (bacteria can enter through a cut near the elbow joint)
• Inflammatory conditions (gout, rheumatoid arthritis)

Most patients who experience elbow bursitis make a complete recovery from the condition within approximately 3-6 weeks.

Symptoms & Diagnosis

Elbow bursitis may build up slowly over a period of time or come on suddenly in response to an injury, illness, or infection. Every patient’s experience is unique, but symptoms of the condition commonly include:

• Swelling and inflammation at the back of the elbow
• Elbow pain that may ache or burn
• Limited range of motion in the elbow joint
• A feeling of tightness in the elbow
• Difficulty sleeping on the affected side
• Weakness in the arm
• Fever and/or warmth (only if the condition is caused by an infection)

Non-Surgical Treatment Options

The majority of cases of elbow bursitis can be treated non-surgically and the customized treatment plan developed for you by your Modern Orthopaedics team may include one or more of the following:

• Rest
• Icing
• Pain medication and/or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to reduce inflammation
• Physical therapy
• Corticosteroid injections to reduce swelling and pain
• Aspiration of the bursa (drawing out fluid)
• Antibiotics (if infection is suspected or confirmed)

Surgical Treatment Options

Rarely, if elbow bursitis is unresponsive to conservative treatments, a surgical treatment approach may be considered. At Modern Orthopaedics of New Jersey, our leading specialists may recommend surgical drainage of the affected area or the removal of the olecranon bursa altogether (bursectomy).

For more information about which treatment approach may offer the best outcome based on your particular needs, circumstances, and health goals, book an appointment at our clinic today!

Why Choose Modern Orthopaedics Of New Jersey For Elbow Bursitis Treatment?

When you choose Modern Orthopaedics of New Jersey, you choose exceptional patient care provided by award-winning specialists in a state-of-the-art environment. Known for our innovative treatment approach and unparalleled skill, precision, and expertise, we possess the knowledge and experience to help you resolve elbow pain once and for all.

Preventing Elbow Bursitis

Elbow bursitis is usually a highly treatable condition, but it can recur over and over again if proper preventative measures are not taken. To avoid the development or recurrence of this condition, the award-winning doctors at Modern Orthopaedics of New Jersey recommend:

• Avoiding overuse of the elbow
• Making time for rest and recuperation between periods of intense exercise
• Using proper tools and protective equipment, such as elbow pads, when performing jobs or activities that put the elbows at risk

Scheduling An Appointment

It’s quick and easy to schedule an initial consultation at Modern Orthopaedics of New Jersey. Contact our clinic today to effectively address elbow pain and take the first step toward a complete and lasting recovery. We look forward to working with you!