If you’re experiencing discomfort or pain in your elbow, particularly when extending or flexing your arm, then it’s possible that you could be suffering from a condition called tricep tendinopathy. This type of injury mostly affects people who engage in repetitive arm activities (such as throwing a ball repeatedly) or do a lot of heavy lifting. Overuse of the triceps muscle can cause tiny tears in its associated tendons, leading to swelling, stiffness, and pain. In this blog post, we’ll take a look at some common tricep tendinopathy symptoms, potential treatments for the condition, and when it’s essential to see a professional.
Symptoms:
The main symptom of tricep tendinopathy is pain in the elbow area, particularly around the back of the joint. It may also feel like a burning sensation when you extend or flex the arm. In some cases, you may also experience swelling or stiffness in the joint, especially in the morning or after an extended period of rest. As the condition progresses, the pain may become chronic, leading to difficulty in completing simple everyday tasks such as carrying grocery bags or raising your arm above your head.
Treatments:
If you suspect you’re suffering from tricep tendinopathy, it’s important to seek medical attention from a professional like a physiotherapist or chiropractor. They may suggest the following treatments:
Rest: It’s important to let your affected elbow joint rest as much as possible, particularly avoiding any activity that puts your tricep under strain.
Icing: Apply an ice pack on the affected area, taking care to avoid touching your skin directly. This will help reduce swelling and ease the pain.
Physiotherapy: A physiotherapist in Waterloo or Kitchener at CARESPACE can guide you with exercises to strengthen your triceps over time, as well as improve flexibility and reduce stiffness.
Chiropractic care: A chiropractor can use manual treatments and other non-surgical methods to help improve joint movement and help alleviate pain.
When to see a professional:
It’s essential to see a medical professional if your tricep tendinopathy symptoms persist beyond a few weeks, or if you notice any sudden changes such as chronic pain or swelling. This will help to rule out any more severe underlying conditions such as arthritis or bursitis. If you’re experiencing severe pain that isn’t responding to any of the treatments mentioned above, then your healthcare provider may prescribe anti-inflammatory medication or suggest surgical treatment.
Tricep tendinopathy can be a painful and limiting condition, but with proper care and medical attention, you can get back to your daily activities and even stronger than before. With a combination of physiotherapy, chiropractic care, and rest, you can help alleviate your pain and improve joint mobility, plus reduce your risk of developing more severe conditions in the future. So if you’re experiencing any of the symptoms mentioned above, it’s essential to see a medical professional as soon as possible.
