What is Elbow Bursitis?

The bursa is a fluid-filled sac located on the tip of the elbow joint between the skin and the bones of the elbow. Its primary function is to allow the skin to move over the bone with ease. A healthy bursa is flat, but when it becomes inflamed or irritated (bursitis) it swells, causing  discomfort and pain.

Bursitis is caused most often by repetitive motions of the elbow joint such as: throwing a ball, lifting objects over the head and leaning on the elbows. Trauma, infection and medical conditions such as arthritis are also common causes.

Common symptoms of elbow bursitis include:

• Swelling at the elbow

• Warmth or redness at the elbow

• Pain

• Stiffness at the joint