Upper limb

Elbow bursae (Subcutaneous/subtendinous olecranon & bicipitoradial bursae)

Bursae cubitales et olecrani

Origin

Subcutaneous over olecranon, deep to triceps tendon, and between biceps tendon and radial tuberosity

Insertion

Adjacent bones, tendons, and joint capsules

Function

Reduces friction for triceps, biceps tendons, and skin over bony elbow prominences

Innervation

Radial and ulnar nerves

Movement & chain

Gliding during elbow flexion and extension

Palpation

Olecranon bursa readily palpable on posterior elbow when inflamed ('student's elbow')

Clinical

Olecranon bursitis (student's elbow / miner's elbow, aseptic or septic); bicipitoradial bursitis causing compression of deep radial nerve.

Segmental innervation

C6–C8

In clinical practice

Aspiration for septic bursitis differentiation, elbow padding, and anti-inflammatory management

Region in the model

Upper limb