Triceps is best palpated with the patient leaning forward, supporting their body weight on a table or desk with slight flexion at the elbow. The long head may be palpated on the superior and posteromedial aspect of the humerus. The lateral head is palpable on the posterolateral aspect. The medial head lies deep to the long head but may be felt on the medial side of the distal humerus.
The power of triceps can be tested by abducting the shoulder until it is perpendicular to the thorax. Abduction prevents gravity from assisting extension. The patient is then asked to forcibly extend the elbow against resistance. The mass of triceps can be felt at the same time by the hand of the examiner that is not providing resistance.
The 'triceps jerk' is a reflex arc involving the triceps muscle.
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