Olecranon Bursitis

Olecranon Bursitis

According to my Injury classification system, Olecranon Bursitis is considered Level 2 Injury, as per the two structures compromised, the alignment and the soft tissue muscles/bursa layer. Olecranon Bursitis is caused by an inflammation of the bursa on the olecranon process due to a misalignment of the proximal ulna in a posterior direction. This condition caused a sharp localized pain at the elbow with restriction of the last 10-15 degrees of elbow extension due to the built up of oedema withing the joint.

 

Mechanism of Dysfunction

Repetitive hand and forearm activities that involves flexion and extension accelerates the progress of this injury. The main joint that contributes to this condition is the proximal ulna misalignment.

Assessment Protocol

The entire upper extremity biomechanical chain must be evaluated as per the neurological and mechanical influences of the spine, shoulder, and hand.

Clinical assessment to identify the key joint dysfunctions of the elbow that have contributed to this condition. Soft tissue analysis to pinpoint the level of irritation in the tendon.

X-ray

Anterior – Posterior (AP) and Lateral X-ray Elbow views are essential to analyse the level and direction of the radial head misalignment.

MRI

Identify the extent of tissue damage and the presence of scar tissue; Provides valuable information regarding prognosis and the application of friction soft tissue modalities to aid on scar tissue removal.

Treatment protocol

Specific elbow adjustments followed by a rehabilitation regime to strengthen the entire soft tissue support of the elbow. In addition, application of tape and may be needed as part of the early rehab program.

Application of Low-level Laser and PEMF to aid on the cellular level of heling as well as improving the microcirculation for the area.

Friction soft tissue therapy helps to reduce dysfunctional scar tissue

Functional tape might be used to reposition the heel bone to reduce the stress on the tendon

Specific selected essential oil application to enhance healing

Depending on level of misalignment and chronicity a minimum of 6 weeks up to 12 weeks of treatment care may be necessary to resolve this deformity.

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