Triceps tendonitis is an inflammation of the tendon that connects the large triceps muscle on the back of your arm to the point of your elbow. This condition is common among athletes who perform repetitive pushing or straightening of the arm, such as weightlifters, gymnasts, or carpenters. Patients usually feel a dull ache just above the tip of the elbow that worsens during activities like push-ups or bench presses.
Management of triceps tendonitis requires a temporary break from heavy loading to allow the inflammation to subside. Once the acute pain is gone, a gradual return to activity is paired with triceps-specific strengthening and stretching. Improving the flexibility of the shoulder and upper back can also help, as it ensures the triceps aren’t overworking to compensate for poor mobility elsewhere in the arm.
