A Comprehensive Guide To Triceps Tendinitis
Triceps tendinitis, also known as Posterior Tennis Elbow, is a common overuse injury that affects the triceps tendon, giving individuals elbow pain with pushing or while stabilising through that arm. It often occurs in athletes who participate in repetitive arm movements, such as weightlifting, tennis, or throwing sports, as well as general populations who repetitively push and pull or use heavy machinery.
Symptoms Of Triceps Tendinitis
Triceps tendinitis occurs when the triceps tendon becomes inflamed as a result of repetitive use or increases in acute loads. Some common symptoms include:
- Pain and tenderness in the back of the elbow, particularly with movement or pressure
- Swelling around the elbow joint
- Stiffness/limited range of motion in the elbow
- Arm weakness, especially when extending the elbow
Causes Of Triceps Tendinitis
Triceps tendinitis is often multi-factorial, including but not limited to:
- Overuse or repetitive strain i.e. sport or work loads
- Poor technique or biomechanics during physical activities
- Asymmetries in muscle balances or weakness in the triceps/surrounding muscles
- Previous elbow injuries
- Trauma
- Age-related changes in tendon structure and health
Physiotherapy/Chiropractic Treatment For Triceps Tendinitis
Physiotherapy & chiropractic care play a crucial role in the treatment and management of triceps tendinitis. The health practitioner can assess your condition, identify contributing factors, and develop a personalized treatment plan to address your specific needs. Treatment may include:
- Pain Management: Utilizing modalities such as LLLT (low level laser therapy), ESWT (extracorpeal shock wave therapy), and others to reduce pain and inflammation in the affected area.
- Manual Therapy: Passive techniques such as soft tissue massage and joint mobilizations to improve flexibility, reduce muscle tension, and promote healing of the triceps tendon.
- Strengthening Exercises: Targeted exercises to reduce pain and strengthen the triceps, shoulder, and forearm muscles to address and improve joint stability and strength of the related tissues. This not only helps repair the tendon, but also reduces the risk of future injuries.
- Biomechanical Correction: Addressing any underlying biomechanical issues or muscle imbalances that may be contributing to the development of triceps tendinitis, including but not limited to postural corrections, improving movement patterns, and modifying activities or loads to reduce strain on the affected tendon.
Secure The Treatment You Need With Spinal & Sports Care!
Triceps tendinitis is a painful and debilitating condition, which responds well to physiotherapy and chiropractic care. The identification of causative factors, treatment and specific rehabilitation helps patients return to their normal activities in the shortest time possible while reducing the risk of future recurrences.
If you encounter symptoms of triceps tendinitis, consider consulting with our team at Spinal & Sports Care to develop a comprehensive treatment plan tailored to your needs. Reach out to our physiotherapists and chiropractors at Spinal & Sports Care today to receive the care and support you need to address your condition.