Triceps rupture
What is Triceps rupture?
A triceps rupture is a tear of the tendon that straightens the elbow, usually from the olecranon at the back of the elbow. It may occur after a fall, heavy lifting, direct trauma or in association with tendon degeneration.
Common symptoms
Symptoms include posterior elbow pain, swelling, bruising, weakness pushing away from the body, difficulty locking the elbow straight and sometimes a palpable gap near the olecranon.
Diagnosis and imaging
Examination assesses active elbow extension strength and tendon continuity. X-rays may show a small fleck of bone pulled from the olecranon. Ultrasound or MRI confirms partial versus complete rupture and defines tendon quality.
Non-surgical treatment
Partial tears with preserved strength may be treated with immobilisation followed by controlled rehabilitation. Patient goals, tear size, strength and functional demand guide this decision.
Surgical treatment
Complete ruptures or functionally significant partial tears are usually treated with surgical repair to restore extension strength. Early repair is generally preferable before tendon retraction and scarring develop.
Recovery and follow-up
After repair, the elbow is protected in a brace with controlled motion. Strengthening is delayed until healing is secure. Return to heavy pushing, contact sport or gym loading is staged over several months.
Triceps rupture FAQs
Can I still move my elbow with a triceps rupture?
Sometimes yes, particularly with partial tears or compensation from other muscles. The key issue is loss of powerful active extension.
How is triceps rupture diagnosed?
Diagnosis starts with a focused history and examination, then uses imaging selectively to confirm the pattern of injury, exclude related problems and plan treatment accurately.
Why is a triceps rupture easy to miss?
Swelling, pain and some retained motion can hide the diagnosis. Persistent extension weakness after injury should be assessed carefully.
Will I need surgery for triceps rupture?
Many patients improve without surgery. Surgery is considered when symptoms remain limiting despite appropriate non-surgical care, when there is significant structural damage, or when delay may compromise function.
When can I return to pushing exercises or contact sport?
Return depends on the diagnosis, treatment type, tissue healing and the physical demands of the activity. The plan is usually staged, with strength, range of motion and confidence rebuilt before unrestricted loading.
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