(08) 7008 7566
(08) 7118 5399
physio@upplus.com.au
177 Trimmer Parade, Seaton SA 5023Elbow Bursitis
The bursa on the tip of the elbow can fill with fluid after a knock or from prolonged leaning, producing a soft swelling that can reach the size of a golf ball. It is often far less painful than it looks. The important thing is distinguishing a simple bursitis from an infected one, which needs medical treatment rather than physiotherapy.
What causes it
- A direct blow to the point of the elbow
- Prolonged leaning on hard surfaces — desks, car doors, floors
- Repeated minor trauma in trades work
- Gout or rheumatoid arthritis
- Infection, which changes the management entirely
What you might notice
- A soft, fluid-filled swelling on the tip of the elbow
- Often minimal pain relative to the size of the swelling
- Discomfort resting the elbow on a surface
- Some loss of full bend if the swelling is large
- Redness, heat, spreading pain or feeling unwell — which point to infection
How we treat it
- Ruling out infection first — red, hot, painful or feverish needs a doctor the same day
- Removing the source of pressure, which is often all that is needed
- Padding or a sleeve to protect it while it settles
- Range of movement work to prevent stiffness
- Strengthening back through the arm once the swelling has gone
- Referral for drainage where it persists or limits function
This page is general information, not a diagnosis. Symptoms overlap between conditions, so the right treatment depends on an assessment. If your pain followed a significant injury, is getting worse, or comes with numbness, weakness or unexplained weight loss, please see your GP.
If it is red, hot or you feel unwell, see a doctor today
An infected bursa needs antibiotics, not physiotherapy. If it is simply swollen and uncomfortable, we can sort out why it keeps filling and stop it happening again.
Or call us on (08) 7008 7566 — we see patients across Seaton, Modbury and Stepney.