Anatomy
Biceps and Triceps
The biceps at the front of the arm and the triceps at the back bend and straighten the elbow. Their tendons at the shoulder and elbow can become painful with repeated effort.
- Biceps brachii
- Triceps brachii
Where is it?
The biceps has two heads: the long head runs in a groove at the front of the shoulder and the short head starts on the shoulder blade. It attaches to the radius at the elbow. The triceps has three heads that join at the olecranon, the point of the elbow.
What does it do?
The biceps bends the elbow and turns the forearm palm-up. The triceps straightens the elbow, for example when pushing or doing push-ups. Both also contribute to shoulder stability.
Common problems
Each problem has its own detailed page: symptoms, causes, treatment and when to seek care.
How we can help
When to seek care
Book an appointment if arm pain persists or limits training or work. A sudden pop with a bulge or dip in the arm (“Popeye sign”) or loss of strength should be assessed promptly by a physician.
Frequently asked questions
Other areas of the body
Educational content: it does not replace an assessment. Your therapist determines the cause of your symptoms in person.