Definition
A bump on the elbow is any form of bulge on the joint that connects the forearm and upper arm. In most cases it is an accumulation of fluid, which in turn can have various causes. As a rule, bumps on the elbow are harmless and go away without special treatment.
Longer existing bumps should be examined by a doctor. The same applies to severe complaints. In a few cases there is a disease that should be treated in time and specifically.
Causes
There are two very common causes of a bump on the elbow and others that are rather rare. The most common cause is a bump on the elbow as a result of an injury, such as a fall or a violent impact with the arm. The tissue is crushed and then fluid is stored.
If a blood vessel was also injured during the injury, a bruise, also called a bruise, can also develop. The second common cause of a bruise on the elbow is an inflammation of a bursa. These tissues, which serve as pressure cushions in large joints, can become inflamed as a result of frequent irritation, for example when playing tennis.
Inflammation of the joint itself can also occur, for example, in the context of a rheumatic disease. Rare causes of bumps on the elbow are benign or malignant growths, whereby a malignant disease is only present in extremely rare cases. An inflammation of the bursa is one of the most common causes of a bump on the elbow.
This is usually very painful and can lead to the arm no longer being able to bend properly. The bump occurs when one of the bursae in the elbow joint becomes inflamed. This normally serves to cushion and protect the joint parts and tendons.
Inflammation is often the result of overloading. It is treated by immobilising, sparing and cooling and usually disappears by itself. In the case of recurring bursitis of the elbow, the affected bursa may have to be removed by a minor surgical procedure.
A bruise on the elbow usually occurs after a fall. Especially if you fall backwards or try to catch yourself with your arms, you can easily bump your elbow. Similarly to the skull or shin, for example, the bone there is only protected by a thin layer of skin and subcutaneous fat tissue.
In the case of an injury such as a fall, this tissue is crushed and damaged. As a result, increased tissue water accumulates at the affected area, which leads to the formation of a visible and palpable bump. If a blood vessel is injured, there is also bleeding in the form of a bruise. Bumps on the elbow after a fall are usually harmless and disappear within a week. If the symptoms are severe and mobility is limited, a doctor should be consulted to rule out a fracture.
