Elbow & Triceps Tendinopathy: Pain Management

Elbow and triceps tendinopathy are common conditions affecting the tendons around the elbow, often seen in individuals who perform repetitive wrist, forearm, or pushing movements. Whether you’re an athlete, a manual labourer, or someone who spends long hours at a desk, these conditions can significantly impact your daily activities and performance.

Elbow and triceps tendinopathy refer to pain and dysfunction in the tendons that attach to the elbow, typically classified as either:

•⁠  ⁠Lateral elbow tendinopathy (Tennis Elbow): Affecting the extensor tendons on the outer part of the elbow, commonly seen in racket sports, repetitive gripping, or heavy lifting.
•⁠  ⁠Medial elbow tendinopathy (Golfer’s Elbow): Involving the flexor tendons on the inner elbow, often caused by repetitive wrist flexion, throwing sports, or occupational activities.
•⁠  ⁠Triceps tendinopathy: Affecting the tendon at the back of the elbow, often caused by excessive pushing movements, weightlifting, or repetitive forceful elbow extension.

Contrary to past beliefs, these conditions are not driven by inflammation but by changes in the tendon structure due to excessive load. This is why traditional anti-inflammatory treatments like corticosteroid injections are not recommended as a long-term solution.

Recognising the Symptoms
•⁠  ⁠Localised pain on either the inside (medial), outside (lateral), or back (posterior) of the elbow.
•⁠  ⁠Increased discomfort with gripping, lifting, wrist movements, or pushing activities.
•⁠  ⁠Morning stiffness and tenderness around the elbow.
•⁠  ⁠Reduced grip strength, forearm fatigue, or difficulty with overhead or pressing movements.
•⁠  ⁠Pain that may temporarily ease during activity but worsen afterward.