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Triceps Tendonitis

Triceps tendonitis is inflammation of the triceps tendon, the tissue that connects the triceps muscle on the back of the upper arm to the ulna at the back of your elbow joint, allowing you to straighten your arm and push away.

Symptoms

Triceps tendonitis is characterized by pain or aches in the triceps area, swelling, weakness, and reduced arm movement.

Causes

Triceps tendonitis can occur due to an acute injury or repetitive overuse. Activities that can lead to triceps tendonitis include:

  • Throwing a baseball
  • Using a hammer
  • Performing bench presses
  • Falling onto your outstretched arm

Risk factors for developing triceps tendonitis include using anabolic steroids, medical conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis or diabetes, not warming up properly before exercise and not using proper technique while performing a repetitive movement.

Diagnosis

Your doctor will conduct a thorough examination of your shoulder, arm, triceps and elbow to identify the site of inflammation and the movements that cause pain. X-rays, ultrasound and MRI scans may be suggested to confirm the diagnosis.

Treatment

First-line treatment options include rest, ice, compression and elevation (RICE protocol).

  • Rest: Restrict all activities that irritate or overuse the triceps tendon.
  • Ice: Apply ice packs wrapped in a towel over the affected area for 15-20 minutes at a time to help alleviate pain and swelling.
  • Compression: An elastic compression bandage is used to wrap and support the area to reduce swelling. Take care not to wrap too tightly which could constrict the blood vessels.
  • Elevation: Keep the affected area elevated as much as possible.
  • Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may also be recommended to reduce inflammation and pain.

If conservative treatment does not provide relief, surgery may be performed. During surgery the tendon can be debrided or cut and reattached to an area of the elbow called the olecranon.

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