Triceps Tendonitis & Triceps Tendon Rupture Care in Coachella Valley
The triceps muscle is located on the back of the upper arm and is responsible for straightening the elbow, pushing movements, and supporting upper-body strength. The triceps tendon connects the muscle to the tip of the elbow bone (olecranon), allowing force to be transferred during movement.
When the triceps tendon becomes inflamed, patients may develop triceps tendonitis. In more severe cases, the tendon can partially or completely tear, resulting in a triceps tendon rupture. At Spencer Orthopedics, we provide comprehensive diagnosis and treatment for triceps tendon injuries, helping patients return to work, sports, and daily activities with improved strength and function.
What Is Triceps Tendonitis?
Triceps tendonitis is an overuse injury that occurs when the triceps tendon becomes irritated or inflamed near its attachment at the elbow. The condition typically develops gradually as a result of repetitive stress on the tendon. Over time, chronic inflammation can weaken the tendon and increase the risk of tearing.
What Is a Triceps Tendon Rupture?
A triceps tendon rupture occurs when the tendon partially or completely tears away from its attachment at the elbow. Although less common than other tendon injuries, triceps ruptures can significantly affect a person's ability to straighten the arm and perform pushing activities. Complete ruptures often require surgical treatment to restore normal strength and function.
Common Causes
Repetitive Overuse
- Weightlifting, push-ups, bench pressing, construction work, repetitive manual labor
Sudden Forceful Contraction
- Heavy lifting, falls onto an outstretched hand, sports-related trauma
Sports Injuries
- Football, wrestling, weightlifting, rugby, martial arts
Chronic tendon degeneration and certain medical conditions or medications may also increase the risk of tendon injury.
Symptoms of Triceps Tendonitis
- Pain and tenderness at the back of the elbow
- Pain during pushing movements and exercise
- Mild swelling and stiffness after activity
- Reduced athletic performance
Symptoms of a Triceps Tendon Rupture
- Sharp pain at the back of the elbow and a popping sensation at time of injury
- Swelling and bruising
- Weakness when straightening the arm and difficulty pushing objects
- Loss of elbow extension strength
- A visible gap above the elbow in some cases
Diagnosing Triceps Tendon Injuries
Your orthopedic specialist may assess elbow motion, arm strength, tendon integrity, areas of tenderness, swelling, and functional limitations. X-rays may help identify bone avulsion injuries and fractures. MRI is often the most effective imaging study for evaluating tendon inflammation, partial tears, complete ruptures, and associated soft tissue injuries.
Non-Surgical Treatment Options
Many cases of triceps tendonitis and some partial tears can be managed without surgery through activity modification, physical therapy, anti-inflammatory medications, ice therapy, and temporary bracing or support.
Surgical Treatment for Triceps Tendon Rupture
Surgery may be recommended when a complete rupture occurs, significant weakness is present, functional limitations interfere with daily activities, or conservative treatment is unsuccessful. During surgery, the torn tendon is reattached to the olecranon using specialized sutures and fixation techniques. Early treatment often leads to the best outcomes.
Recovery and Rehabilitation
Recovery includes temporary immobilization, gradual range-of-motion exercises, progressive strengthening, structured rehabilitation, and return to activity as healing progresses. Patients undergoing tendon repair may require several months of rehabilitation before resuming unrestricted activities.
When Should You See an Orthopedic Specialist?
You should seek evaluation if you experience:
- Persistent pain at the back of the elbow
- Weakness during pushing activities or difficulty straightening the arm
- A popping sensation, bruising, or swelling following an injury
If you are experiencing elbow pain, weakness, or symptoms of a triceps tendon injury, contact Spencer Orthopedics today to schedule an evaluation and learn more about your treatment options.
