General Info
The triceps brachii is a large, thick muscle on the back of the upper arm. The primary function of the triceps is the extension of the elbow joint.
Consisting of three parts: the medial, lateral, and long head, it is principally responsible for extension of the elbow joint (straightening of the arm).
It is an antagonist of the biceps and brachialis muscles in the front of the upper arm. It can also fixate the elbow joint when the forearm and hand are used for fine movements, e.g., when writing.
With its origin on the scapula, the long head also acts on the shoulder joint and is also involved in adduction of the arm. It helps stabilize the shoulder joint at the top of the humerus.
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Cameron Lillicrap has spent over 40 years on both sides of elite sport, as an international rugby player and as Australian Rugby's Team Physiotherapist, trusted to keep some of Australia's most successful athletes on the field. His practical, focus-on-what-you-can-do approach is why people seek his advice when their rehab isn't working. He knows what's needed to get you back 'in the game'. We asked Cam. Here's what he said...
Q&A with Cam
Is a Triceps injury common?
Triceps injuries are uncommon. Pain in the triceps most often occurs due to triceps tendonitis. Other possible causes include triceps tears and snapping triceps syndrome. Treatments can depend on the cause. The triceps muscle is located at the back of the upper arm
Triceps tendonitis often occurs when repetitive or prolonged activities begin to strain the triceps tendon. Some activities that may lead to irritation of the triceps tendon include repetitive pushing movements or straightening the elbow against resistance, such as performing push-ups, dips, or lifting heavy weights.
What problems will tight Triceps cause and how do I avoid them?
The main complaint heard in the clinic relates to pain associated with movement of the shoulder or elbow. This usually follows a significant change in the type, volume or intensity of training.
Someone will present complaining of significant pain in their triceps without incident. Usually they wake the day after a change of activity and feel tightness.
Commonly day 2 is worse. This is usually described as DOMS. Delayed onset muscle soreness. Rest, light exercise including stretches, compression and light massage and time are the usual remedies.
How often would you treat a Triceps muscle tear?
Very very rarely. I have seen only one Tricep rupture in 30+ years of working in clinics and high collision sport environments.
This was a rugby player attempting to push away another player who was the tackler. The injured player felt an immediate sharp pain and weakness as would be expected.
He underwent a surgical repair within a week and has had no ongoing issues.
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