Bursitis of the Elbow (Olecranon Bursitis)

Bursitis of the Elbow (Olecranon Bursitis)

A normal bursa in the elbow compared to an inflamed one (bursitis)

The olecranon bursa is found between the point of the elbow and the skin. Bursitis here causes pain over the point and back of the elbow.

A bursa is a fluid-filled sac that cushions and lubricates areas of the body where friction is likely to occur. Examples of such areas include between two bones, between a tendon or ligament and a bone, and between bone and skin.

Current as of: November 9, 2022

Author: Healthwise Staff
Medical Review:
William H. Blahd Jr. MD, FACEP - Emergency Medicine
Brian D. O'Brien MD - Internal Medicine
Adam Husney MD - Family Medicine
Kathleen Romito MD - Family Medicine
Kenneth J. Koval MD - Orthopedic Surgery, Orthopedic Trauma