Although the condition is relatively rare, a triceps tendon rupture can occur as a result of overuse or from a trauma such as a fall or injury that places strain on the tendon and causes the fibers to tear.
Excessive weight lifting and participating in sports like boxing or gymnastics, which may involve overusing the elbow, can lead to triceps tendon ruptures. Additionally, people suffering from certain conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, chronic renal failure and lupus and those who use anabolic steroids may bear a higher risk of developing a triceps tendon tear. If you’re experiencing an inability to straighten your elbow, or one of the other symptoms listed below, it’s important to seek medical attention before the condition worsens.
The following symptoms may occur as a result of a triceps tendon rupture:elbow swelling
Dr. Millstein will likely perform a physical examination and order an MRI or X-rays to confirm a triceps tendon rupture diagnosis.
You can do a great deal to reduce your risk of suffering a triceps tendon rupture. It’s important to warm up your muscles by stretching before a workout. You should also make sure that you’re performing activities like weight lifting using the correct techniques; ask a trainer or coach to demonstrate the activity if you have questions. Further, it’s important to allow your muscles time to rest and recover in between workouts and maintain good cardiovascular health. Taking these steps can help prevent you from straining the triceps tendon.
In most cases, patients who have already suffered a triceps tendon rupture will need surgery to repair the rupture and avoid elbow extension pain or weakness.
