Triceps Injuries: Causes, Symptoms, and Effective Treatment

The triceps muscle, responsible for arm straightening, extends from the shoulder to the elbow, anchored by a substantial tendon. Injuries to this muscle or its tendon are classified as triceps injuries. Fortunately, complications from such injuries are rare, and most often, they heal naturally with adequate rest.

Types of Triceps Injuries

Triceps injuries encompass various forms of trauma, including:

1. Muscle Strain or Pull
2. Tendonitis: Inflammation of the tendon
3. Tendinosis: Chronic degeneration from repetitive injuries
4. Triceps Rupture: Tearing of the tendon
5. Tendinopathy: An overarching term for any tendon disorder

Causes of Triceps Injury

Triceps injuries can stem from various causes, such as:

• Overstretching the arm
• Sudden impacts or blows
• Forceful arm straightening
• Repeated upper arm overuse

Athletes and sports enthusiasts are particularly susceptible to triceps injuries, often resulting from activities like squash, tennis, weightlifting, baseball pitching, lacrosse, volleyball, or intense football play. Risk factors may include obesity, overdeveloped biceps, or inadequate warm-up exercises.

Symptoms of Triceps Injury

Pain is the primary symptom of triceps injuries, often severe and exacerbated by fully extending or bending the arm. Additional symptoms may include:

• Tenderness
• Inflammation
• Redness or bruising
• Arm stiffness
• Limited arm straightening or bending

Swelling, soreness, or discoloration usually occurs in the upper arm near the elbow.

Effective Treatment for Triceps Injury

Common approaches to treating triceps injuries involve:

1. Icing: Applying ice to the affected area
2. Anti-Inflammatory Medication: Taking prescribed anti-inflammatory drugs
3. Compression Strap: Wearing a strap around the lower triceps area, especially beneficial during uncomfortable activities

City Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine specializes in diagnosing and treating triceps injuries. Our dedicated team tailors treatment plans to individual needs, ensuring a swift and successful recovery.