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Triceps tendionapathy

Last reviewed dd mmm yyyy. Last edited dd mmm yyyy

Authoring team

The triceps (so called because of its three muscular bodies) inserts into the ulna

  • triceps tendinopathy is less common than biceps tendinopathy but may occur due to repetitive or prolonged activities placing strain on the triceps tendon, such as repetitive pushing activities or straightening the elbow against resistance (e.g. performing push-ups or dips)
    • occasionally, it may occur suddenly due to a high force going through the triceps tendon beyond what it can withstand.

Investigation

  • diagnosis is made clinically. There should be discomfort over the posterior aspect of the elbow
  • elbow joint is not involved and the olecranon bursa should not be inflamed. Pain is reproduced by resisted arm extension
  • ultrasound can confirm the diagnosis and an x-ray may show calcification at the triceps insertion in more chronic cases.

Management

  • initial rest followed by physiotherapy.

Reference:

  1. Arthritis Research UK (2011). Hands On (11) - upper limb in primary care

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