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Elbow Bursitis
Elbow bursitis, sometimes called olecranon bursitis, is a condition that can cause swelling and discomfort at the back of the elbow. It often becomes noticeable during everyday activities such as leaning on the elbow, resting the arm on firm surfaces, or bending and straightening the arm.
Symptoms may appear gradually or after repeated pressure, prolonged positioning, or minor trauma to the elbow. For some people, swelling is the most noticeable change. For others, discomfort or stiffness becomes more apparent during movement or when pressure is placed on the area.
Elbow bursitis is commonly associated with irritation of a small fluid-filled sac near the elbow that helps reduce friction during movement.
How Physical Therapy Helps Elbow Bursitis
Physical therapy for elbow bursitis focuses on supporting comfortable movement and function of the elbow and surrounding structures. Care is guided by how symptoms show up during aily activities rather than by the condition name alone.
Physical therapy may help by:
- Supporting elbow mobility and joint comfort
- Improving strength and coordination throughout the arm
- Addressing movement patterns or positions that may contribute to ongoing irritation
- Helping the elbow better tolerate daily activities, work tasks, and recreation
Care is individualized and adapts as symptoms, movement, and functional demands change.
Common Features
People with elbow bursitis often notice shared characteristics, including:
- Swelling or fullness at the back of the elbow
- Sensitivity when resting the elbow on surfaces
- Discomfort that changes with pressure or positioning
- Stiffness or reduced comfort with elbow movement
- Symptoms that may follow repeated contact or prolonged elbow support
These features may vary depending on daily habits and how often the elbow is placed under pressure.
Symptoms You May Experience
Symptoms associated with elbow bursitis may include:
- Visible swelling at the back of the elbow
- Tenderness or soreness around the joint
- Stiffness or discomfort when bending or straightening the arm
- Sensitivity when leaning on the elbow
- Changes in comfort during activities that involve elbow support
Symptoms may fluctuate throughout the day and often change with activity level and positioning.
Related Conditions We Treat
Elbow bursitis is part of a broader group of elbow and upper extremity conditions that may benefit from physical therapy, including:
Frequently Asked Questions
Elbow bursitis is often associated with repeated pressure, prolonged positioning, or irritation to the back of the elbow. In some cases, symptoms may follow a minor impact or increased use.
Not always. Some people notice swelling without significant pain, while others experience soreness or sensitivity, especially when pressure is applied.
Elbow bursitis typically involves swelling at the back of the elbow, while tennis and golfer’s’s elbow are more commonly associated with tendon-related pain on the outer or inner elbow.
Not necessarily. Symptoms often reflect localized irritation or sensitivity rather than structural damage.
Learn More About Physical Therapy
If you’d like more information about what to expect during physical therapy, visit our Patient Resources page.
Get Started
If elbow bursitis, elbow swelling, or discomfort with daily arm use is affecting your activities, a physical therapy evaluation can help determine appropriate next steps for care.
