A subtendinous bursa between the distal triceps tendon and the posterior olecranon, distinct from the superficial olecranon bursa which lies between the skin and the tendon. This deep bursa cushions the triceps tendon against the bone during forceful elbow extension.
| Location | Between the distal triceps tendon and the posterior olecranon, just proximal to its insertion |
|---|---|
| Nearby |
|
Reduces friction between the triceps tendon and the olecranon during elbow extension
The subtendinous triceps bursa is inflamed in triceps tendinopathy and in pre-rupture states, contributing to deep posterior elbow pain with resisted extension, particularly in throwing athletes and weightlifters who repeatedly extend the elbow forcefully. Unlike superficial olecranon bursitis, the swelling is deep and not obviously fluctuant. MRI or ultrasound distinguishes subtendinous bursitis from intratendinous degeneration, superficial olecranon bursitis, and intra-articular posterior impingement. Ultrasound-guided injection into this deep bursa is more precise than blind injection at the olecranon tip.
Deep posterior elbow pain from bursal inflammation between the triceps tendon and the olecranon, worsened by resisted elbow extension, confirmed by MRI and distinct from the more common superficial olecranon bursitis.
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