Elbow bursitis is a filled sac at the tip of the elbow due to trauma, infection or inflammation. Because of the swelling and the bump that develops at the tip of the elbow, this is sometimes referred to as a popeye elbow.
The normal olecranon bursa provides protection and decreases friction to the elbow joint; it contains a small amount of fluid.
Olecranon bursitis causes pain, swelling, tenderness and a lump in the area at the tip of the elbow. It may be difficult to put the elbow down on a surface due to the tenderness.
Bursitis of the elbow can occur due to trauma, infection, inflammation and medical conditions (like gout or rheumatoid arthritis).
Treatment of elbow bursitis includes anti-inflammatory medications, antibiotics (if the infection is suspected), ice therapy, aspiration and surgery. A protective covering should be placed around the elbow while avoiding activities that aggravate the condition.
Dr. Nabil Ebraheim's Blog 