Additional Information

Home Treatments:

Bursitis of the elbow can often be treated by initially resting for a couple of days and applying ice for 20 minutes up to 4-8 times per day. Compression of the elbow via typical injury bandages and elevation of the elbow above the chest level will help reduce the swelling. Over time, with the help of rest, ice, compression and elevation, the bursitis will gradually alleviate itself.

Professional Medical Treatments:

Your doctor may consider x-ray to identify if the bursitis swelling is part of a fracture to the elbow. Certain anti inflammatory medication may be prescribed or a cortisone injection may be administered. Draining of the fluid from the bursa may be another immidieate option considered by your doctor.

Physical Therapy and Exercises:

The two critical components of elbow bursitis related exercises is strengthening and stretching. Strengthening the muscles of the bursitis area will greatly aid in the recovery of this injury and in prevention of future re-occurrence. Stretches of the triceps, bicep, and wrist.

Exercise Techniques to Prevent Injury:

One of the primary ways of preventing elbow bursitis is to be aware of previous elbow pain. Ignoring chronic elbow pain can greatly increase the chance of experiencing a bursitis. Additionally, always properly warm up and cool down when performing exercises or engaging in sports that involve heavy use of the elbow joint and nearby muscles.