Sections View Full Chapter Figures Tables Videos Annotate Full Chapter Figures Tables Videos Supplementary Content ++ Elbow bursitisStudent’s elbowDraftsman’s elbowMiner’s elbow ++ 726.33 Olecranon bursitis ++ M70.20 Olecranon bursitis, unspecified elbow ++ 4E: Impaired Joint Mobility, Motor Function, Muscle Performance, and Range of Motion Associated With Localized Inflammation +++ Description ++ Localized inflammation of the olecranon bursa, which is a subcutaneous bursa at the olecranon process of the elbowBursa fills with blood and serous fluid as a response to either acute or repeated microtraumaPresents as pronounced, local swelling, isolated to the posterior elbow +++ Essentials of Diagnosis ++ Olecranon bursitis (OB) is a result of single episode of trauma or repeat trauma to the posterior elbow when the elbow is in a flexed positionCommonly related to occupation or specific activity that causes rubbing or pressure on the posterior elbow from a hard surfaceSwelling is contained to olecranon bursa which results in the visualization of an “egg” appearance at the posterior elbowPatients often note focal pain to palpation of swollen bursa, decreased range of motion, or inability to don a long-sleeved shirtDifferential diagnosis is essential due to prevalence of infections in this areaExquisite swelling, marked tenderness, and redness or heat may be indicative of differential diagnosis +++ General Considerations ++ Isolated diagnosis related to acute or chronic activity (pressure to the posterior elbow by a hard surface) and focal swelling/pain to the olecranon bursaMarked tenderness or swelling with acute onset may signal underlying fractureRedness or heat may be indicative of infection +++ Demographics ++ No reports identifying or limiting demographics. Incidence related to activity.Occurs primarily in adults, but can occur in children and athletes of any ageChronic cases often associated with occupation (miner) or prolonged activity (student), which places posterior elbow on hard surfaceAcute cases often associated with acute blow to the posterior elbow when flexed (athletes) +++ Signs and Symptoms ++ Point tenderness to the posterior elbowFocal swelling to the posterior elbowStiffness of elbowPain with rubbing or light pressure to posterior elbow (wearing long sleeve shirt)Pain with focal pressure (leaning on desk with bent elbow)Elbow range of motion can be reduced, either flexion, extension, or bothPain and swelling can be either insidious or acuteOccasionally, swelling can be spontaneous and without painPossible reduction in strength due to pain and inflammation ++ Difficulty with dressing, grooming, reaching due to decreased elbow range of motionPain with sitting or leaning postures due to contact on the posterior elbowPain with movements of the hand and wristDifficulties with reaching, grasping, or pushing activities ++ Occupations or activities that involve repeated contact of the posterior elbow on hard surface (e.g., bartender, office, student)Direct trauma to the posterior elbow with elbow flexedSporting activities ... Your Access profile is currently affiliated with [InstitutionA] and is in the process of switching affiliations to [InstitutionB]. Please select how you would like to proceed. Keep the current affiliation with [InstitutionA] and continue with the Access profile sign in process Switch affiliation to [InstitutionB] and continue with the Access profile sign in process Get Free Access Through Your Institution Learn how to see if your library subscribes to McGraw Hill Medical products. Subscribe: Institutional or Individual Sign In Error: Incorrect UserName or Password Username Error: Please enter User Name Password Error: Please enter Password Sign in Forgot Password? Forgot Username? Sign in via OpenAthens Sign in via Shibboleth You already have access! Please proceed to your institution's subscription. Create a free profile for additional features.