NFL Week 12 Injury Spotlight: Brandon Graham Torn Triceps

Sunday night the Philadelphia Eagles continued their winning streak with their strong 37-20 win over the Los Angeles Rams, however they lost the longest-tenured member of the team. The 6-time captain and defensive end, Brandon Graham, suffered a torn triceps early in the game after sustaining a direct hit to the back of his elbow. Not only is this a major hit to the Eagles defense but also to the morale of the team. He will undergo season-ending surgery later this week.

The triceps muscle is the muscle group that is on the backside of the upper arm and is responsible for extending the elbow. Tearing the triceps is considered an extensive injury because of the major functions it supports for our daily activities. It will require surgery to repair the injury to ensure a successful recovery and return to activity. The surgery is an open surgery with a 1-2 inch incision on the back of the elbow to access the distal triceps tendon. The surgeon will debride and repair the damage using sutures. The elbow may be immobilized for about a week and then physical therapy will start.

Physical therapy will focus on regaining range of motion and decreasing pain. The first 6 weeks of treatment will consist of hands-on treatment consisting of massage, passive stretching, and scar mobilization to improve healing and prepare the elbow and triceps for strengthening. These exercises will start with isometric strengthening and then progress to active strength exercises. It is important that while performing strengthening that range of motion is attained to ensure proper strength gains are made. Treatment will incorporate weight bearing activities to improve stability through the elbow. These exercises may consist of various plank positions and push ups. Once foundational strength, stability, and mobility have been regained he can transition to sport specific training. This will consist of a variety of sport specific activities and exercises to improve his power and stability to replicate tacking and blocking. This is important to ensure a smooth transition back out on the field.

Brandon Graham has a long recovery ahead of him but if he completes physical therapy treatment there is a high likelihood he will return next season. The Eagles will be happy to have him with the team the rest of the season on the sidelines to motivate his team. His medical team will be integral in ensuring his rehabilitation is completed properly so that he can get back out of the field and ready for the 2025 season.

Don’t forget to give Portsmouth PT a call if you run into any injuries so we can help you get Back to Sports, Back to Work, and Back to Life!