Quick Summary
A swelling over the point of the elbow may be olecranon bursitis. It can follow pressure or a knock, but infection needs to be excluded when the area is hot, red or painful. Assessment comes before massage or exercise treatment.
Understanding Elbow Bursitis (Olecranon)
The olecranon bursa is a small fluid-containing sac over the back of the elbow. It can become enlarged and irritated. Bursitis is different from pain within the elbow joint, and some cases need GP treatment rather than rehabilitation.
How we assess your symptoms
We review how the swelling started and whether there are signs of infection or joint involvement. If medical treatment is needed, we direct you to your GP or urgent care. Rehabilitation is considered when it is safe and there is a clear movement or function problem.
Do You Experience These Symptoms?
- A soft or rounded swelling over the elbow tip.
- Discomfort with leaning on the elbow or bending it.
- Warmth, redness or increasing tenderness; fever raises concern for infection.
An assessment helps guide your next step, based on your symptoms, health and goals.
A treatment plan built around you
Hands-On Manual Therapy
Direct massage over a swollen bursa is avoided. Once the cause has been addressed, gentle treatment to surrounding muscles may be considered if stiffness or discomfort limits movement.
Is Shockwave Suitable?
Shockwave is not routinely recommended for elbow bursitis (olecranon). Your assessment will guide appropriate rehabilitation, symptom management and whether medical or specialist review is needed. We will explain why each proposed treatment fits your symptoms before you decide whether to proceed.
Targeted Exercise Programme
The initial focus is protecting the elbow from pressure and keeping comfortable movement where appropriate. Padded support or task changes may help. Strengthening is introduced only when the symptoms and underlying cause allow.
When to Seek Urgent Medical Help
While most symptoms are not serious, urgent medical attention is required if you experience any of the following:
- Seek same-day medical advice for a hot, red or rapidly swelling elbow, fever, shivering or feeling unwell. Infection may require antibiotics.
- Seek urgent assessment after injury if the elbow is deformed, movement is severely limited, or the hand is numb, pale or cold. Do not massage or attempt to drain the swelling.
Your questions answered
Does the swelling need draining?
Not always. A GP may sample or drain fluid in selected cases, including to check infection or gout. This is a medical procedure and the swelling can recur.
Can I book massage for it?
A new swollen elbow should be assessed first, particularly if hot or painful. Massage does not treat an infected bursa and can delay appropriate care.
Which appointment should I book?
Choose a Physiotherapy Initial Assessment for new, persistent or uncertain symptoms. We will assess what is limiting you, explain the options and agree the next steps. If you already have a diagnosis, bring any relevant scan report or specialist advice.
Visit J&J Therapy on the ground floor of CI Tower, New Malden. Book an assessment or call our reception team on 07935 869938 if you are unsure which service to choose.
Related conditions
Elbow osteoarthritis · Elbow injury
Sources and further reading
This page is for general information only and does not replace professional medical advice.
Information updated 15 October 2026. General information to support informed choices; it is not a diagnosis or a personalised treatment plan. Suitability and any need for referral are assessed individually. Seek urgent medical help for the warning signs listed above.