Curriculum · Musculoskeletal / Orthopedic / Rheumatology
Olecranon bursitis
What it is
Olecranon bursitis is a superficial bursitis at the back of the elbow. Chronic bursitis is due to repetitive microtrauma, and the olecranon is its most common location.
Causes and risk
Repetitive microtrauma is the cause of the chronic form, so leaning on the elbow keeps it going. A traumatic form also exists, and it is the one in which a plain radiograph is needed to rule out a fracture.
How it presents
Chronic olecranon bursitis presents with minimal pain, no history of injury, no systemic symptoms, and no signs of acute infection or inflammation. An inflamed bursa presents otherwise: a painful swelling on the posterior aspect of the elbow with no history of trauma, erythematous and tender on examination.