Triceps Tendon Tear

What is a Triceps Tendon Tear?

A triceps tendon tear involves partial or complete disruption of the tendon that attaches the triceps muscle to the olecranon process of the ulna at the back of the elbow.

• Rare but serious injury limiting elbow extension
• Often results from sudden forceful elbow flexion against a contracted triceps

Overview of the Condition

Triceps tendon ruptures can cause swelling, a palpable defect above the elbow, and significant weakness in elbow extension. Prompt evaluation and treatment help restore arm function.

Symptoms

• Pain and tenderness at the back of the elbow
• Difficulty or inability to straighten the arm
• A gap or defect above the olecranon

Causes

Sudden heavy force to a bent elbow, or a direct blow to the posterior arm can rupture the triceps tendon. Steroid use, tendon degeneration, and certain metabolic disorders increase risk.

Diagnosis

A clinical exam checking active elbow extension is key. Imaging, including MRI or ultrasound, can assess the extent of tendon damage.

Treatment Options

• Partial tears may be managed conservatively if extension strength is preserved
• Complete ruptures usually require surgical repair
• Rehabilitation is essential for restoring full function

Conservative Management

In partial tears with minimal gap, immobilization in a brace may allow healing, followed by graduated physical therapy to regain strength.

Rehabilitation Exercises

1. Gentle range-of-motion exercises after initial immobilization
2. Progressive resistive exercises for triceps strengthening
3. Shoulder and scapular stabilization to support elbow function

When is Surgery Needed?

Complete tears or those with significant weakness almost always require surgical repair to restore elbow extension strength and prevent chronic disability.

Surgical Procedures

• Reattachment of the tendon to the olecranon with anchors or sutures
• Use of tendon graft if primary repair is not feasible
• Post-op bracing and strict rehab protocol

Anatomy Overview

The triceps muscle has three heads converging into a single tendon that inserts on the olecranon process, enabling elbow extension. Disruption here severely limits arm function.

Affected Areas

• Posterior elbow (triceps tendon insertion)
• Olecranon process of the ulna
• Surrounding posterior capsule and bursae

Frequently Asked Questions

QuestionAnswerCan I still use my arm with a partial tear?Yes, but forceful extension will be weakened. A medical evaluation is recommended to determine optimal treatment.How long is recovery after surgery?It often takes 3-6 months to recover strength and function, including structured rehabilitation.

Prevention Strategies

• Avoid sudden heavy loads on a bent elbow
• Maintain balanced upper body strength
• Address any predisposing tendon issues early

Related Conditions

• Distal biceps tendon rupture
• Olecranon bursitis
• Elbow dislocation

Additional Treatments

Therapeutic modalities like ultrasound or electrical stimulation may assist in pain management and muscle activation during rehab.