Muscle · Arm · Triceps brachii
Triceps pain
Common at this spot
Ordered by how common, not by search volume.
-
Triceps tendinitis
A raw, stiff ache behind the elbow when straightening the arm
Why it happens
A tendon swells after an injury — here, the triceps tendon behind the elbow. It comes from sudden movements or repeated exercise such as running, jumping, or throwing, and from repeating the same motion with poor form or technique.
How it feels
- Pain in the tendon that gets worse when you move
- Trouble moving that joint
- A grating or crackling feeling when the tendon moves
- Swelling, sometimes with heat or redness
How long it usually lasts
Mild tendonitis should feel better within 2 to 3 weeks.
When to see a doctor
See a doctor if it has not improved after a few weeks. Get urgent advice if the pain is severe or you think the tendon has ruptured.
Source: NHS (UK)
-
Triceps tear
A pop behind the arm during a push, then loss of strength
-
Olecranon bursitis
A lump swells behind the elbow and hurts when you lean on it
Get help right away ifSee a doctor if you have a high temperature or feel shivery — that can mean infection.
Why it happens
The fluid-filled sac that cushions the joint becomes painful and swollen. It happens mostly at the shoulder, hip, elbow, and knee — here, at the back of the elbow.
How it feels
- A dull, constant ache
- Swelling and tenderness
- Worse when you move it or press on it
- The area feels warm and looks red
How long it usually lasts
It usually goes away in a few weeks.
When to see a doctor
See a doctor if it has not improved after 1 to 2 weeks of self-care or is getting worse, if you cannot move the joint, or if the pain is severe and sharp.
Source: NHS (UK)
-
Snapping triceps syndrome
Something feels like it rolls over the bone with a snap as you bend and straighten
-
Triceps microtrauma
A throb behind the arm during pushing exercises
Nearby
- Mid back / latissimus
- Teres major / minor
- Serratus anterior
- Deltoid / shoulder
- Upper back
- Supraspinatus