The elbow functions as a hinge joint, with the prominent bony point at the back being the olecranon, part of the ulna bone. Bumps that appear over this area are a frequent concern, though they are often benign. Assessing accompanying symptoms, such as pain, warmth, or limited arm movement, helps determine the underlying cause.
The Most Common Culprit Olecranon Bursitis
The most frequent reason for a bump directly over the point of the elbow is olecranon bursitis, an inflammation of the fluid-filled sac called the olecranon bursa. This bursa is a thin, slippery structure situated between the olecranon bone and the skin, reducing friction during arm movement. When irritated, the sac produces excess fluid and swells, creating a noticeable lump.
This condition is often caused by chronic microtrauma from repetitive pressure, such as frequently leaning on the elbow against hard surfaces. It is sometimes referred to informally as “Student’s Elbow” due to its prevalence in individuals who spend long periods resting their elbows on a desk. An acute, direct blow to the elbow can also cause the bursa to swell rapidly.
The typical presentation of olecranon bursitis is a soft, squishy swelling that is usually not painful unless direct pressure is applied or the elbow is fully bent. This non-infected form, known as aseptic bursitis, accounts for the majority of cases. The swelling can sometimes grow quite large, but the skin color and temperature usually remain normal.
A more concerning type is septic bursitis, which involves a bacterial infection of the bursa, often occurring when bacteria enter through a scrape or puncture wound. Septic bursitis is differentiated by localized symptoms that include warmth, significant redness, and severe pain over the bursa. Fever and chills may accompany these symptoms, indicating a serious condition requiring immediate medical attention.
Solid Swellings and Soft Tissue Growths
Bumps on the elbow area that feel firmer or less fluid-filled than typical bursitis often fall into the category of soft tissue growths. One common type is a lipoma, a benign tumor composed of mature fat cells. These growths are typically soft and doughy to the touch and are easily movable under the skin.
A lipoma is generally painless and grows slowly over months or years, usually presenting as a cosmetic concern rather than a medical issue. They can appear anywhere on the body where fat cells are present, including the upper arms and elbow area. The skin overlying a lipoma usually looks normal.
Another possibility is a ganglion cyst, a fluid-filled sac that develops near joints or tendons. Unlike the bursa, a ganglion cyst originates from the joint capsule or tendon sheath. Although essentially fluid-filled, they often feel firm or rubbery to the touch because the fluid inside is a thick, gelatinous material.
Ganglion cysts are not as mobile as lipomas and are typically distinct from bursitis due to their location and firm texture. They can fluctuate in size, sometimes becoming more prominent with increased activity. These cysts are considered benign and rarely cause pain unless they press directly on a nearby nerve.
Bumps Related to Joint Disease and Chronic Issues
Certain systemic conditions can manifest as nodules around the elbow joint, indicating an underlying disease process. Rheumatoid nodules are firm, painless lumps that appear in individuals with Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA), a chronic autoimmune disease. These nodules are typically found on the extensor surface of the forearm, near the elbow.
These growths are composed of a central area of dead tissue surrounded by inflammatory cells and can vary in size. While usually harmless, they are a sign of more severe or long-standing RA. Rheumatoid nodules are generally attached to the tissue underneath, making them less movable than lipomas.
Another possibility is the development of gouty tophi, which are hard, chalky deposits of uric acid crystals. Gout is a form of inflammatory arthritis caused by high levels of uric acid in the blood. Tophi represent a sign of chronic gout that has been untreated or poorly controlled.
These tophi can form in the olecranon bursa itself or in the tissue surrounding the elbow joint. Unlike the soft swelling of acute bursitis, tophi are firm and gritty, sometimes breaking open to discharge a white, paste-like material. The presence of these nodules signifies the need for systemic medical management to control the underlying disease.
When to Seek Professional Medical Care
While many elbow bumps are benign, certain signs indicate the need for prompt medical consultation. Seek immediate professional evaluation if the bump appeared suddenly and is accompanied by a high fever or chills, which suggests a systemic infection. Severe, throbbing pain that is disproportionate to the size of the lump is also a red flag.
Any rapidly increasing swelling or a bump that is noticeably warm, red, or tender to the touch should be examined quickly, as these are classic signs of septic bursitis. If you notice streaks of redness tracking up or down the arm from the bump, this can indicate a spreading infection that requires urgent antibiotic treatment.
Limited mobility of the elbow joint or an inability to fully bend or straighten the arm may signal a problem beyond simple soft tissue swelling, such as a severe fracture or joint involvement. If the bump does not resolve with conservative measures like rest and ice after a few weeks, or if it is causing significant discomfort, a medical assessment is warranted for an accurate diagnosis.