Triceps tendonitis is a painful and frustrating condition that can interrupt everyday activities, limit exercise routines, and cause lingering discomfort around the back of the elbow. Whether you’re an athlete, gym-goer, or simply noticing a nagging ache while pushing, lifting, or reaching, understanding triceps tendonitis—and how we can help—is the first step towards lasting recovery.
At Perfect Balance Clinic Moorgate, we focus on helping individuals reclaim movement, build strength, and regain comfort when triceps tendonitis threatens to slow them down.
Ready to feel stronger again? Book your consultation today and take the first step towards lasting recovery.
What Is Triceps Tendonitis?
When the triceps tendon is inflamed or sore, it results in triceps tendonitis. The triceps tendon is needed to extend the arm and support the elbow in actions such as:
- Pushing yourself up from a chair
- Performing push-ups
- Lifting/ carrying weights
- Reaching overhead
Overuse, repetitive strain, sudden increases in physical activity, or direct trauma can irritate the tendon, leading to pain, swelling, and limited function. Although often associated with athletes and individuals engaging in heavy lifting, anyone can develop triceps tendonitis due to everyday stresses.
Where Does Triceps Tendonitis Hurt?
The pain centres near the back of the elbow above the bony part known as the olecranon. Most say the pain builds when you push or straighten the elbow.
There can be redness and swelling along with weakness in the elbow. Pain may also travel up or down the arm and affect simple movements.
What Causes Triceps Tendonitis?
A few common things can lead to this elbow condition:
- Jobs or sports with lots of arm use can cause the tendon to get sore.
- Sudden increases in activity levels, especially in strength training or new exercise regimens, without proper progression or conditioning.
- Falling or sudden force on the elbow can cause tiny tears.
- Technique matters—using bad form may stress the elbow tendon.
Spotting the cause early can stop the problem getting worse.
Recognising Triceps Tendonitis Symptoms
Identifying the signs early can make all the difference in recovery. Symptoms often include:
- A dull, persistent ache at the back of the elbow
- Increased discomfort during activities like push-ups or lifting
- Swelling or puffiness in the elbow region
- Reduced ability to fully straighten the arm
- Weakness or stiffness after periods of rest
If you have these signs, speak to a healthcare practitioner before it worsens.
How to Treat Triceps Tendonitis
We help with both the signs and their source at Moorgate’s Perfect Balance Clinic. Our treatments typically include:
- Physiotherapy: Personalised plans with range-of-motion and strengthening exercises
- Cold therapy: Icing the elbow helps with swelling and should be done a few times daily.
- Manual therapy: Deep tissue massage can help relax the area and boost blood flow.
- Bracing: Supporting the elbow with a triceps tendonitis brace to reduce load on the tendon
- Progressive strengthening: Carefully reintroducing movement and load to rebuild strength safely
- Advanced treatments: Laser and shockwave support tendon repair when healing is slow.
For individuals who need additional support, we also offer advanced modalities such as shockwave therapy and laser therapy. These evidence-based treatments are designed to accelerate tendon healing, particularly in persistent or more stubborn cases.
Exercises for Triceps Tendonitis — and Those to Avoid
Using the arm in the right way can help it heal. Initially, focus on gentle movements that promote healing without aggravating the tendon:
- Isometric triceps holds: Contracting the muscle without moving the joint to maintain strength.
- Pain-free range triceps extensions: Using very light resistance to encourage mobility.
- Elbow flexibility movements: Gentle stretching to maintain joint range.
If not careful, you can make the injury worse by overdoing it. You should avoid:
- Heavy bench presses
- Weighted dips
- Deep push-ups
- Overhead tricep extensions with heavy weights
Good exercise choices reduce the chance of further injury.
How Long Does It Take to Recover from Triceps Tendonitis?
How fast you get better depends on the problem and when help starts. For mild cases, healing often occurs within three to six weeks with appropriate intervention and care. Old or bad cases might take several months to recover.
Letting your tendon heal while sticking to the plan makes a big difference. You might hurt the tendon again by being too active too soon.
Triceps Tendonitis vs Tennis Elbow: Understanding the Difference
Each condition targets a different area, even if the pain is similar.
- Triceps Tendonitis: Pain is felt at the back of the elbow, worsened by pushing and straightening the arm
- Tennis Elbow: Pain occurs on the outer side of the elbow, especially with gripping, lifting and overuse of wrist movements.
Proper testing at Perfect Balance Clinic Moorgate helps build a treatment plan that suits you.
Why Choose Perfect Balance Clinic Moorgate for Triceps Tendonitis Treatment?
With knowledge and care, Perfect Balance Clinic Moorgate helps you improve step by step. Our full range of therapy services is ready for you at Perfect Balance Clinic.
We guide you from your first session to your final one with a custom plan. We also equip you with the knowledge to manage your condition and prevent future injury.
What Our Clients Say
Many happy patients at Perfect Balance Clinic Moorgate inspire us daily. Clients at Perfect Balance Clinic Moorgate share great stories about their care.
Contact Us Today to Start Your Recovery
Your journey to a stronger, pain-free arm begins today. If you’ve just started feeling pain or it’s been ongoing, Perfect Balance Clinic Moorgate can help.
Our Moorgate team is here for every part of your healing. One form and your consultation at Perfect Balance Clinic is on the way.
Location and Parking
Perfect Balance Clinic – Moorgate
Located near Moorgate Station (3 minutes’ walk), our clinic is easily accessible via the Circle, Hammersmith & City, Metropolitan, and Northern lines.
Nearest Underground Stations:
- Moorgate
- Liverpool Street
- Bank
Parking:
There is no on-site parking at Moorgate. We recommend travelling by public transport. Paid parking is available in surrounding streets and facilities.
Ready to Begin Your Recovery Journey?
Early steps make big differences in tendon recovery. At Perfect Balance Clinic Moorgate, expert care helps you get back to what you love. If you are ready to take control of your elbow health, reach out to our team at Perfect Balance Clinic Moorgate and let us support you every step of the way.
Book a Consultation Today
Perfect Balance Clinic, Moorgate
