How can my mother who is 92 best treat her torn tricep muscle?

She tore it in hospital pulling herself up the bed, she has had pills and potions and patches but is still in great pain every day. The Dr. says she is to old for an operation.

surgery won't necessarily relieve her pain. surgery would be to restore triceps function (extend the elbow). it also depends on which part of the triceps is injured; if it is the tendon portion (where the muscle is attached to the elbow), then surgery would be necessary to restore function. if it is the muscle substance that is torn, then surgery is not necessary at all, as it will heal/scar with time.
the other factors for anyone who is 92 years old include pre-injury function level and the ability to tolerate anesthesia. if she was bed-bound, has little or no function of arm, or if she would be high risk for any anesthesia, then surgery would be of no vaule at all.
so one always have to evaulate the risks and benefits of an operation.
good luck

if it is the biceps that is torn proximally (will have a "popeye" sign with a more prominent muscle bulge) then surgery is even less indicated. Report It

go get a 2nd opinion.

At her age she probably is at risk for surgery, bless her heart. But I would also seek a second opinion esp. since she is in so much pain. I've had torn ligaments in my thigh and it's not a fun experience at any age. See if you can get her to see another phys. that specializes. Good Luck to you both.

medication wise no advice can be given with out knowing what shes already taking and without the advice of a doctor. lavender heat packs can be purchased at your local pharmacy or health food store which you can just pop in the microwave for a couple of minutes and let the heat soothe it. or as an alternative heat/cool packs can either be microwaved or refridgerated for a cooling effect. i hope she feels better soon best regards x-x-x