Triceps Strain

The triceps muscle lies over the back of the upper arm. Its main action is to straighten the elbow. It also assists moving the arm backward from the shoulder.

The triceps may be strained following a direct blow, when attempting to straighten the elbow or “push” against a sudden or unexpected force that overloads and injures the muscle.

Pain may be felt along the muscle belly or tendon attachments to the tip of the elbow or up to the back of the shoulder. Attempts to straighten the elbow against resistance or reaching behind your neck with the elbow bent will reproduce the pain. Swelling or bruising may follow a traumatic onset.

Self-treatment principles of rest and ice (see Injury Treatment Principles) will assist the resolution of pain and minimise inflammation. The elbow should be bent and straightened as far as comfortable with the assistance of the opposite arm as necessary. Muscular injuries often recover quickly and as full painless movement is restored, strength should be regained using “press-ups” or other triceps strengthening exercises.

For further information refer to:

“Treat Your Own Sprains, Strains and Bruises” by R. Lindsay, G. Watson, D. Hickmott, L. Bruynel, A. Broadfoot.
Spinal Publications New Zealand Ltd., 1994 ISBN 0-9598049-4-3
Available from Procare Medipost, Tel: 0161 678-0233

“Sports Injuries: A unique guide to self-diagnosis and rehabilitation” by M. Read and P. Wade.
Breslich and Foss, 1988 ISBN 1 85004 011 7