Triceps tendinopathy is a condition that is characterized by damage to the tendon of the triceps brachial muscle, causing pain that irradiates in the back of the elbow.

Triceps tendinopathy often occurs due to repetitive and prolonged activities or movements that put pressure on the muscles, the most common being pushing and elbow straightening movements against a form of resistance, such as pushups for example.

Occasionally, triceps tendinopathy can occur suddenly, caused by a greater force than the triceps can bear, heavy weightlifting in a gym being the most common cause of injury in this context.

Most often triceps tendinopathy will occur on the insertion at the elbow level, rather than at the level of the shoulder.

ANATOMY OF THE TRICEPS MUSCLE

The triceps brachial muscle is a long and voluminous muscle, located on the posterior side of the arm, from the shoulder blade to the olecranon (elbow bone). Its upper extremity is divided into three branches or heads of origin (hence the name triceps): the long head (the long portion of the triceps), the lateral head (the lateral vast) and the medial head (the medial vast). Basically, the simple extension of the forearm highlights the muscle.

The triceps brachial muscle is the strongest extensor of the forearm on the arm (opposite the biceps brachial muscle) and also has an infuence on the mobility of the shoulder participating in the extension of the shoulder back.

1. ICE
Ice applied topically, in sessions of 5-10 minutes 3-5 times a day, helps reduce pain and inflammation. Always put a thin towel between the ice and the area on which it is applied, or wrap the ice in a thin towel so as not to irritate the skin.

2. ANTI-INFLAMMATORY DRUGS
It helps improve pain and inflammation in the tendon. As the inflammation subsides, the arm can be moved more, with slight pain.
Anti-inflammatory drugs are recommended but only in the short term, 7-10 days.

3. WEARING AN ORTHOSIS
An orthopedic device (orthotics) will provide support to the affected triceps muscle.

4. PHYSICAL THERAPY
Since triceps tendinopathy can become chronic, it is important to start the recovery program as early as possible. The recovery program will include stretching exercises and exercises to tone (strengthen) the triceps muscle.
Manual therapy is useful for restoring the affected muscle and tendon.
Physiotherapy: ultrasound, laser, interferential waves and shock waves - helps stimulate blood flow to the affected area and encourages healing.

5. AVOIDING ACTIVITIES
Avoid activities that cause or accentuate pain to help the tendon heal but also to prevent further injuries.

➢ Before any sports activities, warm up properly.

➢ When working to increase muscle strength, use the right equipment and weights to prevent unnecessary injuries.

➢ 1-2 days of rest after weight training, help restore the body and prevent injuries.

➢ If you have a history of injuries to the upper back and/or neck, consult a physiotherapist to prepare some exercises designed to strengthen the muscles in the sensitive areas. A well-toned muscle will provide the necessary support to the spine and will prevent injuries.