Triceps injury
Pain in the triceps tendon or muscle / triceps tendinopathy / triceps tendinitis / triceps rupture

Pain along the back of the elbow or the upper arm can have various causes. One of these can be the muscle called the "triceps brachii". Triceps pain is often referred to as triceps tendinitis or a tear in the triceps muscle.

The triceps brachii is the muscle located at the back of the upper arm. It connects the elbow to the upper arm and the shoulder blade. The main function of this muscle is to extend the elbow.

Description of condition

The tendon that attaches the triceps brachii to the rear of the elbow may become inflamed. This is called triceps tendinitis. In more severe cases the tendon can tear partially or completely.

Cause and history

Triceps tendinitis usually occurs following repetitive or prolonged activities that place strain on the triceps tendon. This usually occurs as a result of repeated pushing or straightening of the elbow against resistance. For example, when performing push-ups or dips.

Sometimes the symptoms can develop suddenly as a result of a force that is greater than the triceps can resist. For example, heavy weightlifting in the gym. A fall on an outstretched arm can also cause a triceps injury. Excessive forces increase the risk of a partial or complete rupture of the muscle or the tendon. This is also referred to as a triceps rupture.

Signs & symptoms

• Pain at the rear of the elbow and/or upper arm
  
• Pressing on the triceps tendon or muscle is painful.
  
• Extending the elbow against resistance is painful.
  
• Stretching the muscle usually also causes symptoms.
  
• Swelling may occur along the back of the elbow.
  
• Sometimes there is loss of strength (particularly with a ruptured triceps).

Diagnosis

Treatment

Exercises

You can check your symptoms using the online physiotherapy check or make an appointment with a physiotherapy practice in your locality.

References
Koplas, M.C., Schneider, E. & Sundaram, M. (2011). Prevalence of triceps tendon tears on MRI of the elbow and clinical correlation. Skeletal Radiol. 2011; 40:587-594.
Vidal, A.F., Drakos, M.C. & Allen, A.A. (2004). Biceps tendon and triceps tendon injuries. Clin Sports Med. 2004; 23:707-722.