WHAT IS IT?
The triceps brachii is divided into three heads and is located on the posterior aspect of the upper arm between the shoulder and the elbow, and is responsible for the movements of extending (i.e. of straightening) the elbow and of moving the shoulder back.
A triceps muscle tear injury signifies the rupture of a large number of muscle fibers, caused by an excessive contraction of the muscle in a violent or rapid manner.
Symptoms of a triceps muscle tear include a sudden sharp pain felt at the triceps muscle, which is present even at rest There will also be presence of swelling and bruising, and sometimes an audible pop or snap will be heard during the occurrence of the injury. There might also be the presence of a gap in the muscle in the back of the elbow, where the tendon attaches. Important weakness in the arm might also occur following a triceps muscle tear.
CAUSES/RISK FACTORSÂ :
- A pre-existing lack offlexibility or contracture of the triceps muscle
- A lack of muscle strength or important muscle fatigue present in the triceps
- An excessive training regiment requiring an important or sudden contraction of the triceps
- A poorly healed or unhealed previous injury, such as a muscle strain
WHAT DO PHYSIOTHERAPY TREATMENTS CONSIST OF?
It is important to note that a medical follow-up will be necessary in conjunction to the physiotherapy treatments in order to determine the necessity of anti-inflammatory medications or of a medical surgery.
The physiotherapy treatments will aim to reduce the pain and inflammation present with the use of electrotherapy (such as ultrasound and TENS), ice and proper education regarding the activities that may worsen your condition and thus that should be avoided for the time being. Your therapist will also use a wide array of manual therapy and myofascial release techniques, and will prescribe appropriate stretching and strengthening exercises.
Therefore, please consult a Forcemedic physiotherapist as soon as possible for a quick recovery!
