How long does anti-inflammatory medication take to work for olecranon bursitis?

The medicine may calm pain and inflammation, but a fluid-filled bursa can remain enlarged after discomfort improves. Repeated pressure on the back of the elbow, a knock, or infection can change the expected course. A soft elbow pad and avoiding leaning on the elbow may help reduce irritation.

If the skin is hot or red, the swelling is rapidly increasing, or you feel unwell, medication alone may not address the problem. A clinician may need to examine the bursa and decide whether testing or another treatment is appropriate.

Use the medicine only as directed and do not take two anti-inflammatory products together unless a clinician specifically advises it. Rest from activities that press on the elbow, keep the joint gently moving, and protect it from knocks. Ask a pharmacist about interactions if you use blood thinners or have stomach, kidney, heart, or blood-pressure conditions.

Note the size of the swelling, skin colour, warmth, pain, and elbow movement each day. This makes it easier to tell whether the pattern is improving and supports a focused review.

Seek same-day medical advice for a hot, red, very tender elbow, pus or drainage, fever, chills, or rapidly worsening swelling. Arrange review if pain or swelling is not settling, returns repeatedly, or limits elbow movement. Get urgent help for breathing difficulty, facial swelling, black stools, vomiting blood, or a major reduction in urine after taking the medicine.

Ask whether the bursa appears irritated, injured, or infected; how long to use the medicine; and which elbow activities to avoid. Ask what signs would make aspiration, testing, or a different treatment necessary.