Concern About My Tricep's Unusual Appearance
I apologize for not being able to share images, but I hope you can follow along with my description. Last Friday, I had a weight training session that focused on biceps. As a result, I experienced soreness throughout the weekend. When I returned to class the following Monday, we repeated the tricep exercises. After the workout, I was exhausted and sore, so I headed home to rest. The next morning, I woke up feeling less sore and went to take a shower. As I switched on the bathroom light, I happened to glance at my elbow and realized it appeared swollen—almost twice its normal size. It felt as if I had been stung on the tip of my funny bone (hypothetically speaking, as someone allergic to bee stings). It seemed like my tricep was somehow twisted or ‘folded’ over my elbow. I shared a video of my arm's condition on r/whatdoido to illustrate the difference between my affected arm and the other. I’ll quickly grab the link and add it here in case you want to see it.
Answers (1)
8/12/2025, 7:40:58 PM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you're dealing with some concerning changes in your tricep area following recent workouts. A swollen elbow and unusual appearance of the tricep might indicate a few potential issues, such as muscle strain, inflammation, or even a possible injury. Here’s a breakdown of what could be happening and how you can address it.
Understanding the Situation
- Swelling: This may stem from overuse or strain of the muscles and tendons around your elbow, especially if you’ve recently intensified your workout routine. The sensation you describe could indicate inflammation.
- Unusual Appearance: The ‘folded’ look could result from swelling or muscle fatigue, which can sometimes change the shape or visibility of the muscle.
- Discomfort: The sensation similar to a sting might be due to nerve irritation or compression, which can happen if there’s significant swelling.
Immediate Steps to Take
- Rest and Protect: Give your arm a rest from intensive exercises that engage your triceps and elbows for at least a few days. Avoid heavy lifting or movements that exacerbate the discomfort.
- Ice Therapy: Apply ice to the swollen area for 15-20 minutes every 2-3 hours. This can help reduce swelling and numb the area to alleviate discomfort.
- Compression: Consider using a compression bandage to help minimize swelling. Just ensure it’s snug but not too tight to impair circulation.
- Elevation: Whenever possible, keep your arm elevated above heart level to help reduce swelling.
- Over-the-Counter Pain Relief: If you’re experiencing significant discomfort, taking non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen can help manage pain and inflammation, but always follow the recommended dosage.
Monitor Your Symptoms
Keep an eye on any changes in the swelling or pain level. If the swelling doesn't begin to diminish within a few days or if you notice increased pain, severe discomfort, or changes in movement or sensation, it might be worthwhile to seek professional medical advice.
Conclusion
You’re doing the right thing by paying attention to changes in your body. By resting, icing, compressing, and elevating your arm, you can help manage the swelling and discomfort. If symptoms persist or worsen, don't hesitate to reach out for further assessment. Stay safe, and I hope you feel better soon!
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