Olecranon bursitis

Olecranon bursitis presents as a swelling over the posterior aspect of the elbow. It can occur following trauma but often occurs for no apparent reason. It can be classified as acute, chronic, septic or non-specific. This duration a bursitis can last is variable and it often resolves spontaneously.

• Mechanism of onset ( to exclude traumatic triceps or bony injury), location of pain swelling, severity and longevity of symptoms, limitation to function and presence of any other relevant systemic complaints.

1. Focal pain and swelling posterior elbow – frequently soft/boggy like
2. Palpate for pain.

X-ray can be indicated in traumatic cases to exclude bony injury.

• If clinical evidence of infection – antibiotics and relative rest
• Explanation of cause and natural history
• Patient information sheet
• Educational video (YouTube)

Consider referral to secondary care if:

• Diagnostic uncertainty
• Clinical concern.