The olecranon is responsible for the flexion and extension of the elbow thus when inflammation occurs at the bursae, mobility of the elbow is impaired. 

• Trauma or accidents: high impact to the area such as falling or getting hit at the elbow can lead to bursae rupture, and eventually result in olecranon or elbow bursitis. 
• Side effects of other health conditions: inflammatory conditions or other health conditions such as diabetes, alcoholism, and the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) which hampers the body's natural healing capabilities can cause olecranon bursitis.
• Infection: bacteria penetration at the bursa via injury can cause the bursa to get inflammed, resulting in olecranon bursitis. 

• Swelling: an immediate enlargement of the elbow, a "blob"-like mass forms at the elbow. 

• Redness: the impacted area becomes red, however, this may not show among patients that have darker skin tones.
• Warmness: the elbow and area of impact may feel warmer compared to other areas. 

However, it is worthwhile noting that it is important to have an orthopaedist treat olecranon bursitis even if you do not have any pain, this helps to avoid exacerbating your condition.

• Gender: men are more likely to develop olecranon bursitis than women. 
• Age: olecranon bursitis are common in men in the age range of 30-60 years. 
• Occupation: workers whose job involves crawling on their knees and placing weight on the elbow for support (technicians working in tight spaces) are more prone to developing olecranon bursitis.

You would typically be required to go through the following: 

• Physical examination: the first step of diagnosis will be a physical examination to identify the area of pain and range of motion. ‍
• X-ray: an x-ray will be conducted to check for fractures. ‍
• Ultrasound or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI): imaging tests such as an MRI ‍will check for the presence of inflammation of the bursa. ‍
• Laboratory tests: blood tests or aspiration of the joint will be conducted to test the fluid for the presence of inflammation or gout. 

Apart from that, treatment would typically involve:

• Medication: elbow or olecranon bursitis caused by a bacteria infection will be treated with a course of antibiotics.
• Drainage: the elbow may be drained to relieve pressure.
• Bursa/steroid injections: corticosteroid injections can be administered at the elbow to help to reduce inflammation and relieve pain immediately.
• Oral corticosteroids: like their injection counterpart, these medications help to reduce inflammation and relieve pain. However, the effect is not immediate.
• Physiotherapy: physiotherapy involves the use of gentle and therapeutic exercises that help to improve range of motion and improve the strength of weak muscles.
• Surgery: in rare cases, drainage of the inflamed bursa is necessary for recovery.