In our bodies, we have small, fluid-filled sacs called bursa that act as cushions between bones and soft tissues like muscles and tendons. These bursae help reduce friction and allow smooth movement. When this bursa becomes inflamed, it’s called bursitis.

Elbow bursitis specifically affects the bursa located at the tip of the elbow, known as the olecranon bursa. When this bursa gets irritated or inflamed, it can cause pain, swelling, and tenderness in the elbow.

Common Causes of Elbow Bursitis

Several factors can lead to elbow bursitis, including:

• Repetitive Motion: Activities that involve repeated bending and straightening of the elbow, like playing tennis or gardening, can irritate the bursa.
• Trauma: A direct blow to the elbow or a fall can cause the bursa to become inflamed.
• Prolonged Pressure: Leaning on your elbows for extended periods (e.g., sitting at a desk) can irritate the bursa.
• Infection: Sometimes, the bursa can become infected, leading to inflammation and pain.
• Medical Conditions: Conditions like rheumatoid arthritis or gout can also cause bursitis.

Symptoms of Elbow Bursitis

The symptoms of elbow bursitis can vary but often include:

• Swelling around the elbow
• Pain or tenderness in the elbow
• Redness and warmth over the affected area
• Difficulty moving the elbow

How Physiotherapy Can Help

Physiotherapy is an effective treatment option for managing elbow bursitis. Here’s how it can
help:

1. Pain Relief: Physiotherapists use various techniques to reduce pain and inflammation, such as ice therapy, ultrasound, and gentle massage.
2. Improving Mobility: Stiffness and reduced range of motion are common with elbow bursitis. Physiotherapy includes exercises to gently stretch and strengthen the muscles around the elbow, improving flexibility and movement.
3. Education and Advice: A physiotherapist can provide valuable advice on how to modify activities and movements to avoid further irritation to the bursa. They might suggest ergonomic adjustments at work or tips on avoiding prolonged pressure on the elbow. If conservative management is also not working or the bursitis is severe, a physiotherapist could also provide advice on whether a specialist opinion is required.
4. Strengthening Exercises: Building strength in the muscles around the elbow can help support the joint and reduce the risk of future flare-ups. Physiotherapists design tailored exercise programs that gradually increase in intensity.

Home Management Tips

In addition to physiotherapy, there are some simple steps you can take at home to manage
elbow bursitis:

• Rest: Avoid activities that aggravate your symptoms.
• Ice: Apply an ice pack to the elbow for 15-20 minutes several times a day to reduce swelling.
• Elevation: Keep your elbow elevated, especially when resting, to help reduce swelling.
• Protective Padding: Use elbow pads to cushion and protect the area from further irritation.

Elbow bursitis can be painful and disruptive, but with the right treatment, it’s manageable. If you’re experiencing elbow pain, consider seeing a physiotherapist to develop a personalized treatment plan that can help you get back to your daily activities pain-free.

Remember, early intervention is key to preventing long-term issues, so don’t hesitate to seek help if you’re dealing with elbow bursitis.