A swollen elbow may be caused by injuries or tendinitis. In addition, arthritis and bursitis can cause a swollen elbow. Elbow swelling can be extremely painful and cause the elbow joint to become stiff and tight. Sometimes elbow pain and swelling can be severe and cause significant limitation in range of motion. Typically, ice is used to treat a swollen elbow at the first sign of injury or inflammation. Other treatments may include anti-inflammatory medications, rest, splints or other support devices, and in severe cases, surgery.

Anti-inflammatory medications are often employed to treat a swollen elbow. These medications usually work quickly to reduce the inflammatory process and relieve discomfort. Occasionally, swollen elbow pain may be so severe that the physician may recommend prescription analgesic medications for treatment. Frequently, however, these medications are codeine-based, and although they are highly effective in treating pain associated with a swollen or injured elbow, they may cause significant side effects.

Generally, rest is also recommended to treat a swollen elbow. Normally, rest is an effective treatment in relieving inflammation because it eliminates pressure that is put on the hand, allowing for reduction of swelling and pain. It often can be difficult for a patient to keep their arm at rest; braces and splints can helpful tools to immobilize the affected elbow, thereby reducing the risk of further injury or swelling. Another alternative to a brace or splint may be a sling. Placing your arm in a sling can allow your elbow to heal and decrease the risk of a further insult.

Usually, it is not prudent to massage or apply direct pressure to your swollen elbow in an effort to relieve pain or swelling. Applying pressure to a swollen elbow may exacerbate symptoms. Occasionally, if a swollen elbow does not respond to other treatments, the physician may attempt to drain the elbow of fluid. Typically, bursitis of the elbow may cause excess fluid accumulation. The physician may treat a swollen elbow by attempting to drain excess fluid, thereby alleviating or greatly reducing swelling.

Occasionally, efforts to treat a swollen elbow may be ineffective. When the patient is not responding to non-invasive treatments, the physician may recommend surgical intervention. Surgical procedures used to treat a swollen elbow may include removing the affected bursa. Often, elbow surgery is performed on an outpatient basis; the patient may require an inpatient stay and general anesthesia, however, if the surgical procedure is anticipated to be more extensive.