Elbow bursitis can occur due to various factors, including:

• Trauma: A hard blow to the elbow can cause swelling and excess fluid buildup.
• Prolonged Pressure: Leaning on the elbow for long periods (e.g., on hard surfaces) may cause inflammation.
• Infection: Bacteria from cuts, insect bites, or puncture wounds can enter the bursa sac, leading to infection.
• Medical Conditions: Conditions such as **rheumatoid arthritis** and **gout** increase the risk of elbow bursitis.

• **Swelling** – Usually the first symptom, which may not be immediately noticeable.
• **Pain** – Increases as the swelling stretches the bursa, worsening with pressure or bending.
• **Restricted motion** – Severe swelling may limit elbow movement.
• **Signs of infection** – Redness, warmth, and pus drainage if the bursitis is infected.

Untreated **infected bursitis** can spread to other parts of the arm and bloodstream, leading to serious illness.

Nonsurgical Treatment

If an infection is suspected, fluid may be **aspirated (removed via needle)** for testing, and antibiotics may be prescribed.

For non-infectious bursitis, treatment may include:

• **Elbow pads** – To cushion and protect the elbow.
• **Activity modification** – Avoiding activities that apply pressure to the swollen elbow.
• **Medications** – NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen) to reduce swelling and relieve pain.

If symptoms persist for **3 to 4 weeks**, **corticosteroid injections** may be considered for stronger anti-inflammatory effects.

Surgical Treatment

Surgery is required if **infection does not improve** with antibiotics or fluid drainage, or if non-infectious bursitis does not respond to other treatments.

• For infected bursitis: The bursa may need to be surgically removed, often requiring a short hospital stay.
• For noninfected bursitis: The bursa is removed **as an outpatient procedure**, and it usually regenerates as a normal bursa over time.