Dr. Ebraheim’s educational animated video describing the condition known as the popeye elbow (olecranon bursitis)or elbow bursitis.
Elbow bursitis is a filled sac at the tip of the elbow due to trauma, infection or inflammation. Because of the swelling and the bump that develops at the tip of the elbow, this is sometimes referred to as a popeye elbow.
Normal Olecranon Bursa provides protection and decrease friction to the elbow joint. It contains a little fluid.
Olecranon bursitis causes pain, swelling, tenderness and a lump in the area at the tip of the elbow. It may be very difficult to put the elbow down on a surface due to tenderness.
Bursitis of the elbow can occur due to
•Trauma
Blow to the tip of the elbow causing swelling and fluid build up.
Repeated stress and friction at the tip of the elbow.
•Infection
•Inflammation
•Medical conditions
Gout
Rheumatoid arthritis
Treatment of elbow bursitis includes
•Anti-inflammatory medication
•Antibiotics if infection is suspected
•Ice therapy
•Aspiration: send the fluid for culture and crystals.
•Surgery: debridement & excision of the bursa.
•Protective covering should be placed around the elbow while avoiding activities that aggravate the condition.