Elbow pain can be confusing — is it Elbow Bursitis or Tennis Elbow? Both cause discomfort around the joint but have very different causes and treatments. This blog unpacks the key differences, early signs to look for, and how physiotherapy for elbow bursitis can help you recover faster and avoid long-term issues.
If elbow pain is slowing you down, don’t wait — book your assessment today.
What Exactly Is Elbow Bursitis?
Elbow bursitis, also called olecranon bursitis, occurs when the small fluid-filled sac (the bursa) at the back of your elbow becomes irritated or inflamed. Normally, this bursa cushions the tip of your elbow to reduce friction during movement.
When it becomes swollen, you may notice:
- A visible lump or puffiness at the back of the elbow
- Tenderness when leaning or pressing on it
- Warmth or redness over the area
- Occasionally, reduced elbow motion
Unlike muscle or tendon injuries, bursitis usually affects the pointy tip of your elbow rather than the outer side.
What Causes Elbow Bursitis?
The condition can develop for a variety of reasons, such as:
- Repetitive pressure: Resting your elbows on hard surfaces (like desks) for long periods
- Direct trauma: A fall or bump to the elbow
- Repetitive strain: Overuse through manual work or sport
- Infection: When bacteria enter through a small cut or scrape
- Medical conditions: Such as gout or rheumatoid arthritis
Some people develop bursitis gradually, while others notice sudden swelling overnight — especially after an injury.
What Is Tennis Elbow?
Tennis Elbow, or Lateral Epicondylitis, is a different problem altogether. It’s not about swelling at the tip of the elbow, but pain on the outer side — where the forearm tendons attach to the bone.
It’s a classic overuse injury caused by repetitive gripping, twisting, or lifting movements that strain the tendons.
Common symptoms include:
- Pain or burning on the outer elbow
- Weakness when gripping or lifting objects
- Stiffness in the morning
- Pain that worsens when using tools, shaking hands, or holding a coffee cup
You don’t need to play tennis to get it — many office workers, tradies, and gym-goers develop the condition from repetitive arm use.
To learn more about tennis elbow, CLICK HERE
How to Tell the Difference Between Elbow Bursitis and Tennis Elbow
| Feature | Elbow Bursitis | Tennis Elbow |
|---|---|---|
| Pain location | Tip of the elbow | Outer elbow |
| Appearance | Swollen lump visible at the back of the elbow | Usually no visible swelling |
| Pain trigger | Direct pressure or leaning on the elbow | Lifting, gripping, or twisting |
| Cause | Inflammation of the bursa | Tendon overload or microtears |
| Movement | Pain with deep bending of the elbow | Pain when extending wrist or fingers |
| Infection risk | Possible (bursa can become infected) | Very rare |
If you notice swelling or warmth, bursitis is more likely.
If your pain worsens with gripping or wrist movement, it’s likely tennis elbow.
When to See a Physiotherapist
If your elbow pain has lasted longer than a week, is affecting your daily activities, or has visible swelling — it’s time to see a physiotherapist.
Physios can assess which structure is irritated, identify contributing factors (like posture or work habits), and provide a clear recovery plan.
You should seek help urgently if:
- The swelling is red, hot, or increasing quickly (possible infection)
- You have limited elbow movement
- Pain persists despite rest or self-care
- You rely on your arms for work, sport, or parenting duties
At X Physio Frenchs Forest, our physiotherapists treat both elbow bursitis and tennis elbow with a tailored approach to reduce inflammation, restore mobility, and prevent recurrence.
Physiotherapy Treatment for Elbow Bursitis
Early physiotherapy can help control swelling, improve elbow mobility, and address the cause of irritation.
Treatment may include:
1. Accurate Diagnosis and Education
Your physio will assess whether the swelling is due to trauma, overuse, or infection. Understanding the cause helps you manage it effectively and avoid making it worse.
2. Swelling Management
- Rest and avoiding pressure on the elbow
- Use of a padded elbow sleeve
- Ice therapy to reduce inflammation
- Gentle compression if appropriate
3. Manual Therapy and Taping
Gentle mobilisation and soft tissue massage may help improve joint mobility and circulation. Kinesiology taping can also help offload pressure on the inflamed bursa.
4. Strengthening and Posture Exercises
Once swelling settles, your physio will guide you through exercises to strengthen the surrounding muscles — especially the triceps, forearm, and shoulder — to reduce stress on the elbow.
5. Activity Modification
Your physio may suggest ergonomic changes, like avoiding leaning on your elbows or adjusting your workstation setup.
6. Return to Sport or Work
Gradual return plans ensure you rebuild strength safely without flare-ups.
Physiotherapy Treatment for Tennis Elbow
If your pain is diagnosed as tennis elbow instead, treatment focuses on reducing tendon irritation and rebuilding tendon capacity:
- Manual therapy: Deep tissue release, dry needling, and joint mobilisation
- Strengthening exercises: Progressive loading of the wrist and forearm
- Shockwave therapy: Can accelerate tendon healing in chronic cases
- Bracing: Counterforce braces to offload the painful tendon
- Education: Avoiding aggravating grips and improving technique
Both conditions benefit from a guided exercise plan — the key is targeting the right structure early.
Real Patient Example – Success Story from a Nearby Suburb
Recently, a 46-year-old carpenter from Belrose, just a few minutes from Frenchs Forest, came to X Physio with swelling and pain over the back of his elbow after weeks of leaning on his workbench. Initially, he thought it was tennis elbow, but our assessment confirmed olecranon bursitis.
After two weeks of rest, targeted physiotherapy, and use of a protective elbow pad, the swelling significantly reduced.
We introduced light strengthening and posture exercises to prevent recurrence, and within four weeks, he was back to full duties — pain-free and more aware of how to protect his elbows on site.
How Long Does Recovery Take?
- Mild elbow bursitis: 1–3 weeks
- Moderate bursitis (without infection): 3–6 weeks
- Chronic or recurrent bursitis: 6–10 weeks or more
Recovery depends on how long you’ve had the problem and whether infection or repeated pressure is involved.
Physiotherapy helps ensure the swelling resolves fully and doesn’t come back.
Self-Care Tips While Waiting for Your Physio Appointment
- Avoid leaning on your elbows — even soft surfaces can aggravate the bursa.
- Apply ice for 10–15 minutes a few times per day.
- Use an elbow pad if you must rest your arm on hard surfaces.
- Keep your elbow moving gently — don’t let stiffness set in.
- Avoid anti-inflammatory creams or tablets without professional advice if infection is suspected.
Can Elbow Bursitis Come Back?
Unfortunately, yes — especially if the cause isn’t addressed. People who rest their elbows frequently on desks, workbenches, or armrests often find it returns.
Your physio can help identify the underlying habits or strength imbalances contributing to recurrence and teach prevention strategies.
When Is Elbow Bursitis Serious?
If the swelling is hot, red, and accompanied by fever or severe pain, seek medical attention immediately.
This could indicate septic bursitis, which may need antibiotics or drainage.
Your physiotherapist will recognise this and refer you to a GP promptly if infection is suspected.
Takeaway: Don’t Ignore Elbow Pain
Whether it’s a bursa or a tendon, early diagnosis and proper care are key. Ignoring elbow pain can turn a small irritation into a long-term problem.
Physiotherapy offers hands-on treatment, education, and exercises to get you moving comfortably again — and keep it that way.
Give us a call today on 9806 3077, or book online — just CLICK HERE.
FAQs About Elbow Bursitis and Tennis Elbow
1. Can I treat elbow bursitis at home?
Mild cases may improve with rest, ice, and avoiding pressure. But if swelling persists beyond a few days or gets worse, see a physiotherapist for proper management.
2. How do I know if it’s elbow bursitis or tennis elbow?
Bursitis causes swelling at the tip of the elbow, while tennis elbow causes pain on the outside of the elbow — usually without visible swelling.
3. Can physiotherapy fix elbow bursitis?
Yes. Physiotherapy reduces inflammation, restores mobility, and prevents recurrence by addressing the cause of irritation.
4. How long does elbow bursitis take to heal?
With early physiotherapy, most cases improve within 3–6 weeks. Chronic or infected bursitis may take longer.
5. Is it safe to exercise with elbow bursitis?
Gentle movement is encouraged, but avoid direct pressure or heavy loading until cleared by your physiotherapist.