Diagnostics
The clinical picture of bursitis olecrani in combination with the patient’s medical history (anamnesis) is usually sufficient for diagnosis. In order to be able to more accurately assess a possible restriction of movement, the doctor often tests the range of motion in the elbow joint. Additional examinations can be useful to find out the cause of the bursitis and/or not to overlook accompanying diseases.
An X-ray can show calcium deposits, ultrasound or magnetic resonance imaging of the elbow can be used to see and assess a bursa effusion, and a puncture of fluid can be used to detect the pathogen. However, magnetic resonance imaging of the elbow is rarely necessary. Important differential diagnoses of bursitis olecrani, which should be further clarified if there is reasonable suspicion, are various rheumatic diseases, lipoma, liposarcoma and tuberculosis.
Duration
An inflammation of the bursa at the elbow can become noticeable gradually over a few weeks. In order to start a therapy as early as possible, one should not wait too long to consult a doctor. The inflammatory processes in the joint can last for several months.
It is therefore important to start therapeutic measures early, as it is possible to influence the course of the disease significantly. The pain disappears after a few weeks, and the swelling usually persists. Of course, the duration of bursitis olecrani also depends to a large extent on the severity of the inflammation.
Another important factor that influences the course of the disease is the general condition of a patient and the secondary diseases. For example, if the bursitis is partly caused by rheumatoid arthritis, gout or a systemic autoimmune disease, treatment of the underlying disease makes a significant contribution to relieving the inflammation. However, if the triggering disease is not treated, the duration of the bursitis will increase dramatically. Changes in work processes or load reductions for the affected joint can also shorten the duration of the inflammation.
Forecast
In most cases, bursitis olecrani can be well controlled by conservative measures. It is very painful in the acute stage and can sometimes severely restrict movement in the elbow joint. However, if treatment is carried out consistently, the disease usually heals without consequences within a few weeks, so it is important to avoid a chronic inflammation developing from an acute one. Should an operation become necessary, patients can almost always expect to be free of symptoms and a completely restored range of motion of the elbow.
Prophylaxis
Bursitis olecrani can be prevented by wearing suitable protectors during activities that could cause injury to the elbow (e.g. various sports). If an injury does occur, wounds should be well cared for. In addition, chronic strain on the elbow should be avoided.
