Elbow conditions
Triceps ruptures
A tear of the triceps tendon at the back of the elbow, an uncommon injury that usually needs surgical repair to restore the ability to straighten the arm.
Tendon tear at the elbow
Uncommon injury
Usually repaired
What is a triceps rupture?
The triceps muscle at the back of the upper arm attaches by its tendon to the tip of the elbow and powers straightening the arm. A triceps rupture is a tear of this tendon off the bone.
It is one of the least common tendon ruptures, usually from a fall onto an outstretched hand or a forceful load. Because it disables elbow extension, a complete tear is almost always repaired surgically.
Overview
At a glance
Don't delay
A complete triceps rupture is best repaired promptly to restore the ability to straighten the elbow against resistance.
Symptoms & signs
Signs of a triceps rupture
The injury affects the ability to straighten the arm.
Pain and swelling at the back of the elbow
Weakness or inability to straighten the elbow against resistance
Bruising over the back of the elbow
A palpable gap above the tip of the elbow
A pop felt at the time of injury
Causes & risk factors
What causes it
Most occur with a fall or sudden load.
Falls
A fall onto an outstretched hand is the most common cause.
Heavy lifting
A sudden, forceful load can tear the tendon, especially in strength athletes.
Risk factors
Certain medications and conditions can weaken the tendon.
Direct blow
A direct impact to the back of the elbow can contribute.
Treatment options
How triceps ruptures are treated
Complete tears are usually repaired; partial tears may be managed non-surgically.
- Considered only for partial tears with preserved strength
- Bracing and a gradual return to motion
- Close monitoring to ensure the tendon holds
- Therapy to maintain strength
- The tendon is reattached to the tip of the elbow
- Restores the ability to straighten the arm
- Best done soon after a complete tear
- Followed by protected rehabilitation
Related procedure
Repair is performed as part of Dr. Cohn's elbow surgery, see the overview of the surgical process.
Recovery
What recovery looks like
Recovery is staged to protect the repair.
Protect
A splint holds the elbow while early healing begins.
Gentle motion
Therapy returns motion in a protected range.
Strengthen
Progressive strengthening rebuilds the triceps.
Full use
A staged return to full activity and lifting.
FAQ
Common questions
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A complete tear, which disables straightening the arm, is almost always repaired. Partial tears with preserved strength may be treated without surgery.
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Dr. Cohn examines your ability to straighten the elbow against resistance and confirms the tear with imaging such as an MRI.
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Most patients regain strong, reliable elbow extension after repair and rehabilitation.
Related procedures