What it is
The triceps muscle runs along the back of the upper arm and attaches to the olecranon, the bony point of the elbow. A tear usually happens when the muscle is contracting against a sudden load, such as a fall onto an outstretched arm or a heavy press.
Tears may be partial or complete. Anabolic steroid use, steroid injections near the tendon and certain medical conditions, such as chronic kidney disease, have been associated with a higher risk.
Symptoms
- Pain and swelling at the back of the elbow
- Bruising after the injury
- A gap or soft spot just above the point of the elbow
- Weakness straightening the elbow, especially against resistance or overhead
- Difficulty pushing up from a chair
Diagnosis
Diagnosis starts with a history and an examination of elbow strength. X-rays may show a small fleck of bone pulled off the olecranon with the tendon. MRI defines whether the tear is partial or complete and guides treatment.
Treatment options
Non-surgical
- For partial tears with good strength
- A period of protection in a splint or brace
- A guided physical therapy program to restore motion and then strength
Surgical
- Distal triceps tendon repair. The tendon is reattached to the olecranon with strong sutures, using anchors or bone tunnels.
- Repair is typically recommended for complete tears and for partial tears with significant weakness.
- Older tears may require reconstruction with a tendon graft.
Recovery
- First weeks
The elbow is protected in a splint or brace while the repair begins to heal.
- Early rehab
Bending and straightening are restored gradually under therapist guidance.
- Strengthening
Strengthening typically begins a couple of months after surgery.
- Full recovery
Return to pressing, pushing and heavy lifting usually takes several months.
Timelines are typical ranges, not guarantees. Recovery depends on the specific injury, the procedure, your health and your rehabilitation, and your plan is individualized.
Questions patients ask
Is a triceps tear an emergency?
Usually not, but complete tears generally do best when repaired soon after the injury, so prompt evaluation is wise.
Will I be able to lift again?
The goal of treatment is to restore strength. Return to lifting is gradual and guided by healing and your progress in therapy.
Do all triceps tears need surgery?
No. Partial tears with preserved strength often do well with protection and therapy.
This page is general patient education and is not a substitute for an in-person evaluation.