The triceps brachii is a large, three-headed muscle located on the back of the upper arm, extending from the shoulder blade and humerus down to the forearm bone (ulna). Its primary function is to extend the elbow joint, straightening the arm.
The Initial Event: What You Might Hear and Feel
At the precise moment a triceps tear occurs, individuals frequently experience a sudden, sharp pain. This immediate sensation is often described as feeling like a direct impact or a sudden, forceful pull on the back of the upper arm. It is common for this acute pain to be accompanied by an audible “pop” or “snap” sound coming from the affected area. Following the sound and initial pain, there can be an immediate feeling that the muscle has “given way” or that something has ripped.
Characterizing the Pain of a Tricep Tear
After the initial acute event, the pain stemming from a triceps tear typically settles in the back of the upper arm, extending from just below the shoulder down towards the elbow. Depending on the severity and location of the tear, the pain might concentrate closer to the shoulder or more intensely near the elbow.
The quality of this pain can vary, often presenting as a deep, persistent ache that might throb. Some individuals describe the pain as a sharp, burning sensation, particularly when attempting to move the arm. This discomfort can intensify with even slight movements of the elbow or shoulder. Conversely, when the arm is at rest, the pain might lessen to a dull ache, but it generally remains present.
Other Physical Sensations and Signs
Beyond the pain, a triceps tear often presents with additional physical sensations and visible signs in the injured arm. Swelling is a common occurrence, causing the affected area to feel tight, full, or puffy. This swelling typically develops within hours of the injury and can contribute to a feeling of stiffness around the elbow joint.
Bruising, appearing as discoloration on the skin, may also develop, often becoming noticeable a day or two after the injury. When gently pressing on the injured area, individuals often experience significant tenderness to the touch. In more severe, complete tears, there might be a palpable gap or indentation where the muscle or tendon has detached, which can be felt under the skin.
Impact on Movement and Strength
A triceps tear significantly impairs the ability to move the arm, particularly when attempting to straighten the elbow. Individuals often report a profound feeling of weakness, making it difficult or impossible to extend the elbow against even minimal resistance. This can manifest as an inability to push objects away or perform actions that require arm extension, such as pushing a door open. The arm may also feel unstable, especially during attempted movements. Any effort to use the triceps, even for simple tasks, typically results in a sharp increase in pain, discouraging further movement. This compromise in strength and function is a direct consequence of the damaged muscle fibers or detached tendon, which cannot efficiently transmit force.
When to Seek Professional Medical Guidance
If you experience a sudden “pop” in your arm accompanied by immediate, severe pain and a noticeable loss of strength, it is important to seek professional medical guidance. Significant swelling and bruising that develop rapidly after an injury are also indicators that warrant an evaluation. An inability to fully extend your arm at the elbow joint or a visible deformity, such as a noticeable indentation on the back of the arm, suggests a serious tear. Even if the pain is not initially severe but persists for several days, or if there’s ongoing weakness and difficulty with everyday tasks, consulting a healthcare professional is advisable. An accurate diagnosis is important for determining the extent of the injury and developing an appropriate treatment plan to facilitate healing and restore function.