What could cause swelling near the elbow in the forearm?

Reviewed by Yoshinori Abe, MD

Internal Medicine

Swelling near the elbow in the forearm is often caused by injury, inflammation (such as tendonitis or bursitis), infection, or fluid buildup from overuse or trauma. Common signs include tenderness, warmth, stiffness, or reduced range of motion. While mild swelling may resolve with rest, ice, and elevation, persistent, painful, or worsening swelling should be evaluated by a healthcare professional to rule out serious conditions like cellulitis, fractures, or joint disorders.

Not sure what's causing your symptoms? Take a free, instant, online symptom check to get personalized insights based on your specific situation. In just a few minutes, you can better understand possible causes and receive guidance on the right next steps—whether that's home care, seeing a doctor, or seeking urgent attention. It's a smart, no-cost way to make informed decisions about your health.

Reviewed for medical accuracy: 07/15/2026

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Explanation

Swelling in the forearm near the elbow may result from:

Injury: Sprains, strains, fractures, or overuse can cause swelling around the elbow. Bursitis: Inflammation of the bursa (a small fluid-filled sac) near the elbow can cause swelling and tenderness. Tendonitis: Overuse or repetitive movements can inflame tendons around the elbow, leading to swelling. Infection: Cellulitis or other infections can cause redness, warmth, and swelling. Fluid buildup: Conditions like lymphedema or venous insufficiency may cause swelling due to poor fluid drainage. Cysts or growths: Ganglion cysts or other lumps may develop near the elbow causing swelling.

If swelling is severe, painful, or doesn't improve, use this free symptom checker to help identify possible causes and determine if you need to see a healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment.

(References)

Macfarlane JD, & van der Linden SJ. (1981). Leaking rheumatoid olecranon bursitis as a cause .... Annals of the rheumatic diseases, 7247476.
Lin YM, Tan TS, & Lee TS. (2001). Tuberculous synovitis of the elbow joint. Journal of the Formosan Medical Association = Taiwan yi zhi, 11678011.
Manaqibwala MI, Ghobrial IE, & Curtis AS. (2014). Upper extremity thrombosis presenting as medial elbow .... Case reports in orthopedics, 24772360.

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