Bursae Locations in the Arm
The arm contains several clinically important bursae, with the bicipitoradial bursa being the most significant—located between the distal biceps tendon and the radial tuberosity at the elbow.
Primary Bursa of the Arm
The bicipitoradial bursa is the main bursa in the arm region 1. This structure:
- Lies between the distal tendon of the biceps brachii (which it surrounds) and the radial tuberosity
- Measures 2.4 to 3.9 cm in size, making it relatively large
- Located in the cubital fossa (anterior elbow region)
- May contain septations
- Does not communicate with the elbow joint cavity, though it may communicate with the interosseous bursa of the elbow 1
Anatomical Context
Bursae are extra-articular synovial-lined sacs that function to decrease friction between tendons and either bone or skin 2, 3. They occur at predictable anatomical sites throughout the body 3.
Clinical Significance
When the bicipitoradial bursa becomes inflamed (bursitis), it presents as:
- A palpable mass in the cubital fossa
- Neurological symptoms (sensory and/or motor deficits) from radial nerve compression 1
On ultrasound examination, an inflamed bicipitoradial bursa appears as an anechoic (fluid-filled) formation surrounding the distal biceps tendon 1.
Common Pitfalls
While the shoulder region contains multiple bursae (subacromial, subdeltoid), these are technically around the shoulder joint rather than in the arm proper. The bicipitoradial bursa at the elbow represents the primary bursa within the arm segment itself.