Elbow Bursitis Information

Last reviewed on 9 September 2025 by Danniel Jacques (B.Med.Sci UNSW)

What is Elbow Bursitis (Olecranon Bursitis)?

Elbow Bursitis - OSMO Patch - AUOlecranon bursitis is the proper name for the inflammatory condition ‘elbow bursitis’. Elbow pain due to olecranon bursitis occurs when a small bursa within the elbow (which normally acts as a small cushion between bones and tendons) becomes inflamed and swollen. This can occur for several reasons which will be discussed below.

Another name often given to this condition is ‘Poppy Elbow’ due to the large lump that may appear on the elbow.

What Causes Elbow Bursitis?

As mentioned above, the elbow is very susceptible to injury. Below are some of the common causes for elbow bursitis.

  • Repetitive strain and stress to the elbow such as from playing sports, lifting weights or resting elbows on hard surfaces for long periods of time.
  • Sudden impact such as from a fall, sports injury or an accident.
  • Natural wear and tear of the elbow joint.
  • Pre-existing inflammatory conditions.
  • Infection. If there is heat, redness, swelling and pain in your elbow there may be an active infection. It is best to seek treatment from a medical professional straight away if you suspect an infection.

What are the Symptoms of Elbow Bursitis?

Signs and symptoms of bursitis in the elbow may include:

  • A small to large visible lump on the elbow
  • Discomfort and elbow pain at rest,
  • Pain in the elbow when bending the arm,
  • Moderate to severe elbow pain when placing weight on the elbow
  • There may also be a limited range of motion in the elbow.

How is Elbow Bursitis Diagnosed?

It is always best to visit a qualified medical professional if you suspect that you have bursitis in the elbow prior to starting any treatment in order to get a proper diagnosis.

While elbow bursitis can be assessed by a physical and visual examination it is best to have an x-ray and ultrasound to properly confirm the diagnosis.

Your doctor may also feel that blood tests or aspiration of some of the fluid is required if they suspect an infection or to rule out any other possible causes or co-existing conditions.

Next Page: Learn the answers to the most common questions asked about treating elbow bursitis, including:

Testimonials

Real accounts by real people. Hear what they have to say!

Elbow bursitis

Great product!

I have to admit when I first applied the patch I was a bit skeptical, but after the first application the swelling in my elbow was greatly reduced and after about six applications the swelling was completely gone!

I have been free of bursitis for several months!

Ronald
United States
Elbow Bursitis

The OSMO Patch worked great for my wife’s elbow bursitis,

I’ve placed another order through the website, a work colleague was just diagnosed with hip bursitis and I’ve recommended OSMO Patch.

Fantastic product.

Jackson P
TN, United States
Swollen elbow almost half the size of a tennis bal

After noticing a swollen lump on my elbow almost half the size of a tennis ball, I visited my doctor who explained it was a bursa and could be drained but would likely re-occur. Like others, I found your website and decided to “give it a go” although being a little skeptical.

While waiting, my doctor drained it by needle, but it re-filled within 3-4 days as predicted. When the patches arrived, I immediately used them with skepticism. The next morning, I could not believe my eyes, it was covered with similar fluid as the doctor had removed and again after 3 more.

My elbow is now back to normal, and I have no hesitation in recommending them to anyone with similar problems.

Brian L
Auckland, New Zealand
Bursitis in shoulder & elbow

Hi, I have had bursitis in my right shoulder for more than 3 years, after about 6 months of physio, I still have a lot of pain. About 14 months ago I developed bursitis in the left shoulder and elbow, which causes me very disturbed sleeps, I had treatment with an Osteopath, the pain subsided only temporarily

I have used 9 of your patches, 2 on my elbow and the rest on my shoulder, the improvement in my shoulder has been amazing, I still have a lot of pain but the movement has improving so much that I don’t hesitate in getting dressed as previously just pulling a T-shirt over my head was painful.

Thank you so much and I hope more people find your website. What a blessing.

Tessa L
VIC, Australia
Bursitis of the elbow, knee swelling & leg cramps

My husband healed his bursitis of the elbow with your patches. –

They are amazing, and he is now using 2 patches on each knee at night for knee swelling, and it seems to give him amazing relief from cramps in his legs that kept him awake throughout every night for years.

He has used everything from niacin to bars of ivory soap between the sheets.

Sheila W
Connecticut, United States
Bursa in elbow

Thank you so much for your attention and immediate response to my e-mail.

About 9 months ago I slipped on a ladder and banged my elbow which resulted in a bursa sac; This was the first time ever, but about two months ago it happened again. Your patches worked great both times. They significantly reduced my recovery time.

Thanks again!

Kent A
Florida, United States
Bursa in elbow

Dear Toky,

My patches arrived on Feb. 10th. I have now used 9 of the patches, wearing one sometimes during the day.

I have noticed significant results, although there is still some swelling in the bursa in my left elbow.

George A
Utah, United States
Buristis (the size of a hardball) in elbow

So, I had bursitis (the size of a hardball) in my elbow. Three doctor visits (3) draining visits but swelling returned instantly.

Tried your patches and after 10 apps. it has completely disappeared!

Thank You

Ed L
Washington, United States
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