The olecranon bursitis is classified according to cause and course:

1. **Acute bursitis:** Sudden onset inflammation, often caused by trauma or infections.

2. **Chronic bursitis:** Recurrent or long-lasting inflammation, often due to constant mechanical stress.

3. **Aseptic bursitis:** Non-infectious inflammation, usually caused by mechanical irritation or overload.

4. **Septic bursitis:** Infectious inflammation caused by bacteria, often with fever and severe local symptoms.

5. **Traumatic bursitis:** Arises from bruises or injuries to the elbow.

The causes of olecranon bursitis can be divided into mechanical, inflammatory, and infectious factors:

• Mechanical stimuli:
  • Repeated pressure load, for example, during kneeling or supporting activities ("student's elbow").
  • Traumatic events such as bumps or bruises.
• Inflammatory diseases:
  • Rheumatoid arthritis, gout, or other systemic diseases.
• Infections:
  • Bacterial infections that penetrate through open wounds or injections into the bursa.
• Risk factors:
  • Chronic stress, anatomical misalignments, or poor circulation.

The symptoms vary depending on the severity and cause of the inflammation, but typically include:

- Swelling: Visible and palpable swelling in the area of the elbow, often soft and fluid-filled.

- Pain: Local pain that increases with pressure or movement.

- Redness and overheating: Signs of acute inflammation, especially in septic bursitis.

- Movement restrictions: Difficulty in extending or bending the arm.

- General symptoms: Fever, weakness, or general feeling of illness in the case of an infectious cause.

The diagnosis is based on a thorough medical history, clinical examination, and, if necessary, supplementary procedures:

• Medical history:
  • Recording the duration of the illness, possible triggers (injuries or overuse), and pre-existing conditions.
• Physical examination:
  • Visible and palpable assessment of swelling, redness, and tenderness.
• Imaging:
  • Ultrasound: Visualization of fluid accumulations in the bursa.
  • X-ray: Exclusion of bone injuries or calcifications.
  • MRI: Detailed assessment of chronic or complicated cases.
• Laboratory tests:
  • Blood tests to detect inflammation markers and infections.
  • Aspiration of the bursa to analyze the fluid in case of suspected septic bursitis.

Conservative Therapy

In most cases, olecranon bursitis can be successfully treated without surgery:

• Immobilization and Relief:
  • Avoidance of strenuous activities and use of elbow protectors.
• Medication Therapy:
  • NSAIDs: To relieve pain and inflammation.
  • Antibiotics for infectious bursitis.
• Local Applications:
  • Cold treatment for acute symptoms to reduce swelling.
  • Heat therapy for chronic complaints to promote blood circulation.
• Aspiration: Removal of excess fluid to relieve pressure.
• Physiotherapy: Promotion of mobility and strengthening of the elbow after the acute phase subsides.

Surgical Therapy

In complicated or recurrent cases, surgery may be necessary:

• Bursectomy: Surgical removal of the inflamed bursa.
• Debridement: Cleaning and removal of infected or necrotic tissue.
• Reconstruction: Restoration of function in cases of severe damage.

To prevent and alleviate the symptoms of olecranon bursitis, the following measures are recommended:

1. Pressure relief: Use of elbow protectors or pads during strenuous activities.
2. Regular exercise: Promoting joint flexibility and stability through targeted training.
3. Avoiding overexertion: Limiting repeated pressure or impact loads.
4. Healthy lifestyle: Treatment of underlying inflammatory conditions such as rheumatism or gout.
5. Early treatment: Immediate medical consultation at the first signs of swelling or pain.