Olecranon bursitis
Olecranon Bursitis
Olecranon bursitis (pronunciation: oh-leh-kruh-non bur-sigh-tis) is a condition characterized by swelling, redness, and pain at the tip of the elbow. The condition is also commonly referred to as elbow bursitis or student's elbow.
Etymology
The term "olecranon" is derived from the Greek words "ole" meaning elbow and "kranon" meaning head, referring to the prominent bone at the elbow joint. "Bursitis" is derived from the Latin "bursa" meaning purse or bag, and the Greek "-itis" meaning inflammation, referring to the inflammation of the bursa, a small fluid-filled sac that reduces friction between tissues of the body.
Symptoms
The primary symptoms of olecranon bursitis include:
- Pain: This is usually a dull ache that worsens with movement of the elbow.
- Swelling: The bursa at the tip of the elbow becomes swollen and may feel like a soft lump.
- Redness and warmth: The skin over the elbow may be red and warm to the touch.
Causes
Olecranon bursitis can be caused by several factors including:
- Trauma: A hard blow to the tip of the elbow can cause the bursa to produce excess fluid and swell.
- Prolonged pressure: Leaning on the elbow for long periods can irritate the bursa.
- Infection: If an injury at the elbow breaks the skin, bacteria may get into the bursa and cause an infection.
- Medical conditions: Certain conditions, such as rheumatoid arthritis and gout, can also cause olecranon bursitis.
Treatment
Treatment for olecranon bursitis may include:
- Rest and elbow protection: Avoiding activities that put pressure on the elbow and using elbow pads can help reduce symptoms.
- Medication: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can help reduce pain and inflammation.
- Physical therapy: Exercises to improve elbow strength and flexibility can be beneficial.
- Surgery: In severe cases, the bursa may need to be surgically removed.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Olecranon bursitis
- Wikipedia's article - Olecranon bursitis
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