Elbow bursitis is an inflammatory process of the synovial bag. This is due to the fact that the amount of fluid in the elbow joint increases, its composition changes. Joint fluid is required to ensure the normal functioning of the joint, which helps prevent damage to rubbing surfaces.
What is bursitis
Daily physical exertion, which have to face the elbow joint, lead to various kinds of diseases. Among the most common problems, bursitis can be noted, which implies the accumulation of fluid in the elbow joint and the subsequent occurrence of an inflammatory process. As a result of this, the hand ceases to function normally and the quality of human life deteriorates sharply.
The composition of the fluid in the elbow joint during the course of inflammation can be different, in particular:
- purulent;
- serous;
- fibrous;
- hemorrhagic.
Hemorrhagic contains impurities of the blood, purulent - many white blood cells, as well as bacteria. The least dangerous is the serous composition. This disease can occur completely in everyone, regardless of age and gender.
Causes of occurrence
If fluid has accumulated in the elbow joint, the reasons for this may be different. There are several factors that lead to such a disease, among which they need to be distinguished such as:
- mechanical injury to the elbow;
- arthritis;
- microtrauma;
- infection penetration.
After a bruise, fluid in the elbow joint begins to accumulate and become inflamed after some time. One of the most common causes of bursitis is arthritis.
In addition, often a similar problem arises due to the constant movements of the elbow, resulting in microtrauma. Often this disease refers to the professional illness of chess players, draftsmen, engravers and those whose work involves constant support on the elbow.
If near the synovial bag there are injuries of the skin, then an infection provoking inflammation can penetrate the bursa. The main factors in the occurrence of this disease can also include metabolic disorders, prolonged stress, impaired immunity, diabetes mellitus.
Types of bursitis
Bursitis of the elbow joint has several different forms and types, each of which is characterized by the intensity of the painful manifestations, as well as the consequences. We can distinguish such forms of pathological formation of fluid in the elbow joint, such as:
The chronic form is characterized by the occurrence of minor painful sensations, lasting for a long time. In this case, there is absolutely no restriction of elbow mobility and there is no tumor, however, during the examination, a small seal is felt.
In the acute form, severe pain is observed, especially during movement. Often there are also additional symptoms: there is an increase in temperature, general intoxication of the body is observed, which provokes impaired functioning of not only the elbow joint itself, but also of many internal organs.
A relapsing form is observed if the integrity of the affected area has been repeatedly violated or infection has occurred. In the walls of the bag, even after recovery, contains liquid with pathogenic microorganisms.
Characteristic symptoms
With fluid accumulation in the elbow joint, the first symptoms will be severe swelling and pain. There is also some restriction of joint mobility. This disease can occur in acute and chronic form, each of which is characterized by certain symptoms.
In the acute stage, severe pain occurs, aggravated by movement, and the tumor also grows very quickly. In this case, the ailment can be diagnosed only by external signs, since the tumor has significant dimensions. When palpating, severe pain can occur, and the affected area becomes soft and warm. In addition, fever and malaise may occur.
With the occurrence of an ailment in a chronic form, painful sensations are not very pronounced, but at the same time they are observed for a long time. The tumor is very difficult to test, but a small seal is noticeable. Hand movements are not limited.
Diagnostics
With discomfort in the elbow joint, the occurrence of pain and swelling, you need to contact an orthopedic doctor. To make an accurate diagnosis, the doctor conducts:
- examination of the patient;
- roentgenogram;
- ultrasound diagnostics;
- joint fluid puncture .
Based on the examination, the doctor determines the presence of the disease, the nature of its course and selects the most suitable treatment method.
Treatment features
With the accumulation and inflammation of fluid in the elbow joint, treatment is selected purely individually, taking into account the particular course of the disease. Acute bursitis is treated by an orthopedic surgeon or traumatologist using conservative techniques, while a chronic surgeon treats it.
When treating acute inflammation, it is shown:
- applying a tight bandage to restrict movement;
- taking anti-inflammatory drugs;
- the use of therapeutic ointments;
- applying cold.
With very severe inflammation, the introduction of corticosteroids into the bursa is indicated. In the presence of purulent inflammation, treatment is supplemented with antibacterial drugs. The treatment program also includes physiotherapy. With the ineffectiveness of conservative treatment and the transition of the disease to an advanced stage, surgical intervention is indicated.
Treatment with folk remedies
With pathological accumulation of fluid in the elbow joint, treatment with alternative methods can bring a very good result, however, they must be used together with antibacterial therapy. You must first consult a doctor. He will be able to recommend traditional medicine, which will go well with conservative medicine.
At home, compresses and decoctions of herbs are used. The easiest compress is potato. To do this, apply raw potatoes to a damaged elbow. A golden mustache plant is considered a very good remedy, the compresses from which help to fight many different diseases. For compresses use a decoction or infusion of this plant.
With the accumulation and inflammation of fluid in the elbow joint, treatment with folk remedies can give a very good result, but you need to choose the right herbs and follow all the rules for their use. For pain relief, it is recommended to apply frozen sheets of Kalanchoe, pre-wrapping them with a clean cloth to prevent skin damage.
Burdock root is also considered a good folk remedy, as it helps to cope with absolutely any inflammation. To prepare a compress, you need to pour crushed root with boiling water and insist for 20 minutes. Then soak gauze in infusion and apply to the elbow.
General recommendations
In the presence of bursitis, it is very important to limit movements, as they can lead to a worsening of the condition. You should also carefully apply bandages, as if they are very tight, this can cause damage to the elbow. With bursitis, you need to limit consumption or exclude foods from your diet such as:
- alcoholic drinks;
- fast food;
- fatty, fried and salty foods;
- carbonated drinks;
- foods containing food additives.
These products are very harmful in the presence of pathologies of the kidneys, diseases of bones and joints.
Prophylaxis
It is very important to timely prevent the occurrence of bursitis and the occurrence of relapses in the event of its chronic form. Such preventative measures include:
- prevention of injuries and other injuries;
- the use of special protection when engaging in contact sports;
- arthritis prophylaxis.
If the first signs of the disease occur, do not ignore them, you should immediately consult a doctor for an examination and subsequent treatment.