Elbow Bursitis in Children: Care Instructions

Overview

Bursitis is pain and swelling of the bursae, which are sacs of fluid that help the joints move smoothly. Olecranon bursitis is a type of bursitis that affects the back of the elbow.

Injury, overuse, or prolonged pressure on the elbow can cause this form of bursitis. It also can occur for unknown reasons.

Treatment includes avoiding activities that cause pain or that put pressure on the elbow. This helps protect the area while it heals. If the doctor thinks there is infection, your child may be prescribed antibiotics. Most children get better in a few weeks. If the problem doesn't go away, your child may need other medicines or treatments.

How can you care for your child at home?

• Put ice or a cold pack on the elbow for 10 to 20 minutes at a time. (Put a thin cloth between the ice and your child's skin.) Try to do this every 1 to 2 hours for the next 3 days (when your child is awake) or until the swelling goes down.
• After 2 or 3 days, you can try applying heat to your child's elbow. Apply heat for 10 to 20 minutes at a time, several times a day. You might also try switching between ice and heat.
• Help your child rest the elbow. Have your child stop or reduce any activity that causes pain.
• Ask your doctor if you can give your child acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) for pain. Be safe with medicines. Read and follow all instructions on the label.
  • Do not give your child two or more pain medicines at the same time unless the doctor told you to. Many pain medicines have acetaminophen, which is Tylenol. Too much acetaminophen (Tylenol) can be harmful.
• If the doctor prescribed antibiotics, give them to your child as directed. Do not stop giving them just because your child feels better. Your child needs to take the full course of antibiotics.
• If the doctor gave you a sling, an elastic bandage, or a splint, help your child wear it exactly as instructed.
• Have your child wear elbow pads during physical activity to prevent injury.
• Teach your child not to lean the elbow on tables or armrests.