Olecranon bursitis is a common condition resulting from the inflammation of the bursa, a small, fluid-filled sac situated at the back of the elbow’s bony tip. This inflammation causes noticeable swelling and sometimes pain, often resembling a soft lump. Compression wrapping is a practical home management technique that can help mitigate this swelling. Applying an elastic bandage correctly provides gentle, uniform pressure to the area. This guidance focuses on the technique for utilizing compression wrapping to manage elbow bursitis effectively.
The Role of Compression in Managing Elbow Bursitis
Applying a compression wrap provides external pressure that counteracts fluid accumulation within the inflamed olecranon bursa. This pressure is a direct application of the “Compression” element in the standard RICE protocol for soft tissue injuries. The goal is to minimize swelling and aid the body in reabsorbing the excess fluid.
The mechanism creates a pressure gradient that helps push pooled fluid from the bursa back into the body’s lymphatic and circulatory systems. This continuous, gentle force prevents the bursa sac from expanding further. By limiting the volume of fluid, compression can reduce discomfort and prevent swelling from interfering with the elbow’s normal range of motion.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Applying the Wrap
To begin, select an elastic bandage, typically three to four inches wide, appropriate for an adult arm. Keep the elbow positioned in a slightly bent state (around 20 to 30 degrees) while wrapping. This position accommodates the expansion of muscles and joint tissue when the arm moves, preventing the wrap from becoming too tight upon flexion.
Start the wrap well below the elbow joint, on the upper forearm, using two or three circular turns to anchor the bandage securely. This starting point ensures pressure is applied distally and moves proximally, facilitating the flow of fluid toward the torso. Maintain consistent, moderate tension throughout the application; the wrap should be snug but not restrictive.
Next, transition into a figure-eight pattern by wrapping diagonally across the elbow joint, alternating the bandage above and below the swelling. Each successive layer should overlap the previous one by approximately half the width of the bandage to maintain smooth, even compression. Continue the figure-eight pattern until the entire swollen bursa and the immediate surrounding area are covered.
Finish the application several inches above the elbow, on the lower bicep or tricep, with a few circular turns. Secure the end with the provided clips or adhesive tape on the upper arm, away from the joint’s crease, to prevent irritation or uneven pressure. A smooth, wrinkle-free application ensures consistent pressure and avoids creating pressure points that could impede circulation.
Signs of Over-Compression and Safety Checks
A compression wrap should never cause pain, and monitoring for signs of excessive tightness is necessary. Indicators that the bandage is too tight include the onset of numbness, a pins-and-needles sensation, or persistent throbbing pain in the arm or hand. Visually inspect the fingers or hand for color changes, such as blue or purple discoloration, or a drop in skin temperature, which signals restricted blood flow.
The capillary refill test is a quick method for checking circulation. Press gently on a fingernail and observe how quickly the color returns after releasing the pressure; this should take less than three seconds. If the refill time is longer or if the area below the wrap appears increasingly swollen, the bandage is too restrictive and must be removed and reapplied more loosely.
The wrap should be removed and reapplied every two to three hours during waking hours, and especially before sleep, to check the skin and ensure continuous, even compression.
When Home Wrapping is Insufficient
While compression is a helpful home treatment, certain symptoms indicate that olecranon bursitis may be complicated or infected, requiring immediate medical evaluation. The presence of a fever or chills suggests a systemic infection, known as septic bursitis. Other localized signs of infection include bright red streaks spreading away from the elbow, a marked increase in skin temperature, or pus draining from the site.
If the pain becomes suddenly intense, worsens rapidly, or if the swelling does not improve within a few days of consistent home management, professional medical attention is necessary. These symptoms signal a need for more aggressive treatment, such as antibiotic therapy or fluid aspiration, that cannot be managed with compression wrapping.