A bursa functions like a water balloon to reduce friction and wear of the soft tissues over bone. The olecranon bursa is a bursa between the back of the elbow (olecranon) and the overlying skin. This bursa allows the skin to glide easily and without friction over the back of the elbow. Olecranon bursitis is characterized by inflammation and pain of this bursa.
Frequent Signs and Symptoms
- Pain, tenderness, swelling, warmth, or redness over the back of the elbow at the olecranon bursa
- Limited movement in the affected area, occasionally with radiation of pain into adjacent areas
- Occasionally, severe pain with movement of the affected elbow Crepitation (a crackling sound) when the bursa is moved or touched Often, painless swelling of the bursa
- Fever (when infected)
Etiology (Causes)
- Usually a sudden direct trauma or repetitive pressure on the back of the elbow
- Less commonly, overuse or strenuous, unaccustomed exercise of the elbow