Elbow bursitis can often be treated at home. However, in some cases you will want to seek medical treatment for this condition. If you experience a fever or feel sick along with swelling behind the elbow, your bursitis may be caused by an infection, called septic bursitis. See your doctor if you experience these symptoms.
If you don’t have a fever, but your elbow is getting progressively worse, you should schedule a medical appointment. A physical examination will be conducted to see if there is a tender, swollen area behind the elbow and assess your range of movement.
Your doctor may also order an x-ray to see if you have a fracture or bone spur. An ultrasound may also be helpful to show fluid in the olecranon bursa.