Triceps tendinopathy is a common condition that causes pain and discomfort in the back of the upper arm. It can be a debilitating condition that affects daily activities such as lifting, pushing, or even simple tasks like brushing your hair. Understanding what triggers triceps tendinopathy is crucial in managing and preventing this condition. In this blog post, we will discuss the possible triggers of triceps tendinopathy and how you can avoid them with the help of physiotherapy and chiropractic care.
Overuse: One of the most common triggers of triceps tendinopathy is overuse or repetitive strain on the triceps muscle. This can happen due to activities that involve repetitive arm movements such as weightlifting, tennis, or pitching in baseball. Overloading the triceps muscle without proper rest and recovery can lead to inflammation and irritation of the tendon, resulting in tendinopathy.
Poor biomechanics: Incorrect movement patterns or poor biomechanics during physical activities can also contribute to triceps tendinopathy. Improper form while performing exercises like push-ups, dips, or overhead presses puts unnecessary stress on the triceps tendon, leading to microtears and inflammation. Working with a physiotherapist or chiropractor can help identify and correct these faulty movement patterns to prevent further damage to the tendon.
Muscle imbalances: Imbalances between the triceps muscle and other surrounding muscles, such as the biceps or shoulder muscles, can also play a role in triggering triceps tendinopathy. Weakness in certain muscle groups or tightness in others can lead to compensatory movements that put excessive strain on the triceps tendon. A comprehensive assessment by a physiotherapist or chiropractor can identify these imbalances and create a tailored treatment plan to address them.
Age-related changes: As we age, our tendons become less elastic and more prone to degeneration. This natural aging process makes older individuals more susceptible to developing conditions like triceps tendinopathy. However, age-related changes do not have to be a barrier to staying active and healthy. Physiotherapy interventions such as strengthening exercises, manual therapy techniques, and modalities like ultrasound or laser therapy can help manage symptoms and improve function in individuals with triceps tendinopathy.
Trauma or injury: Acute injuries such as falls, direct blows to the elbow, or sudden excessive force on the arm can also trigger triceps tendinopathy. These traumatic events can cause immediate damage to the tendon or exacerbate underlying degenerative changes within the tendon structure. Seeking prompt medical attention from a physiotherapist or chiropractor following an injury can facilitate early diagnosis and appropriate management strategies for faster recovery.
Triceps tendinopathy is a painful condition that can significantly impact your quality of life if left untreated. By understanding what triggers this condition – including overuse, poor biomechanics, muscle imbalances, age-related changes, and trauma – you can take proactive steps to prevent it from occurring or worsening. Working with healthcare professionals like physiotherapists and chiropractors who specialize in musculoskeletal disorders is essential for accurate diagnosis, personalized treatment plans, and long-term management of triceps tendinopathy. Remember that early intervention is key in addressing symptoms effectively and returning to pain-free movement!
If you have any questions or would like to explore further, please book a free, no-charge online appointment. Dr. Burzin Rao is a chiropractor in Waterloo.
