Bursitis (bursitis olecrani)
There is a bursa covering the bony point that cups the humerus (olecranon) on the back side of the elbow to help the elbow to bend and straighten smoothly. When the bursa is inflamed (bursitis olecrani), a large ball/swelling will be visible. Below you can find exercises and information about bursitis olecrani.
1. Rolling a swiss ball
Start by sitting on a long bench with the yoga ball in front of you on the bench. Place your hands on the ball and roll it as far forward as possible without letting go; you may use your back during this movement.
2. Rolling the ball
Place the hand with the affected finger on the ball. Then, roll the ball forward across the table, keeping your hand fully on the ball. Roll the ball back towards you.
3. Push a towell over a table
Place your hands on the towel, shoulder-width apart. Slide across the table with your arms extended. Your torso moves forward as well. Return to the starting position and repeat the movement.
4. Anteflexion shoulder
Lie on your back. Bring your hand toward your shoulder, then raise your elbow. Next, fully extend your arm. Finally, lower your arm by reversing these steps.
5. Torbay anteflexion circle
Lie on your back. Extend your arm alongside your body with the palm facing up. Bring your hand to your shoulder and position your elbow above your shoulder. Fully extend your arm and make a circle in the air. Gradually return your arm to your side.
6. Passive flexion
Stand behind the table, place your forearm on it, position one leg forward and the other back, and ensure your palm is facing the ceiling. Then, lean forward until your palm and wrist almost touch your shoulder. Finally, return to the starting position and repeat.
Medicine ball
Hard. Compact. Qualitatively.
Fitness mat
Hard. Compact. Qualitatively.
The meaning of a elbow bursitis (bursitis olecrani)
Three bones join together to make up the elbow joint; the upper arm (humerus) and forearm (radius and ulna). To help stabilize the elbow joint, a joint capsule and ligaments on the inner and outer side provide passive stability. The elbow is able to move smoothly and pain free due to the shape of the bones, guidance from the ligaments and capsule and coordinated movements of the muscles. There is a bursa covering the bony point that cups the humerus (olecranon) on the back side of the elbow to help the elbow to bend and straighten smoothly.
The causes of a elbow bursitis (bursitis olecrani)
When the bursa is inflamed (bursitis olecrani), a large ball/swelling will be visible. It is also known as “student’s elbow”. Inflammation can occur due to a trauma when you bump your elbow into something or through prolonged leaning on your elbow.
The symptoms of a elbow bursitis (bursitis olecrani)
There can be a moderate to severe swelling on the back of the elbow that can grow quickly. Redness and increased local temperature can also indicate an inflamed bursa. If this is the case, contact your GP for further assessment.
The treatment of a elbow bursitis (bursitis olecrani)
Usually no medical intervention is needed and the body will resolve the inflammation over time. Avoid irritating the bursa further by reducing load and movement of the elbow and try to avoid leaning on it.
Synonyms
Bursitis olecrani, inflamed bursa of the elbow, student’s elbow
Advice
If you have any questions regarding the exercises, doubt if you are doing them correctly or aren’t sure they are suited for your condition, please contact your physiotherapist for support.
Attention:
Yourbody.coach offers a range of exercises. Yourbody.coach can not be held responsible if you develop injuries. Always consult your physiotherapist or specialist.