Biceps Tendonitis & Biceps Tendon Tear Care in Coachella Valley
The biceps muscle plays an important role in lifting, pulling, and rotating the arm. It is connected to the shoulder and elbow by strong tendons that help stabilize the arm during movement. When these tendons become inflamed, irritated, or torn, patients may experience significant pain, weakness, and limitations in daily activities.
Biceps tendonitis and biceps tendon tears are common shoulder injuries that can affect athletes, active adults, and individuals whose work requires repetitive arm movements. At Spencer Orthopedics, we provide comprehensive care for biceps tendon injuries using both non-surgical and surgical treatment options tailored to each patient's needs.
What Is Biceps Tendonitis?
Biceps tendonitis occurs when the tendon connecting the biceps muscle to the shoulder becomes inflamed or irritated. The long head of the biceps tendon travels through the shoulder joint and attaches near the top of the shoulder socket. Because of its location, it is often subjected to repetitive stress and overuse. Over time, chronic inflammation can weaken the tendon and increase the risk of tearing.
What Is a Biceps Tendon Tear?
A biceps tendon tear occurs when the tendon becomes partially or completely detached from the bone. Tears may occur gradually due to degeneration, suddenly following an injury, or in combination with other shoulder conditions such as rotator cuff tears, shoulder impingement syndrome, labral injuries, and arthritis.
Common Causes of Biceps Tendon Injuries
Repetitive Overhead Activities
- Baseball, tennis, swimming, weightlifting
- Construction work and painting
Age-Related Degeneration
As people age, tendons naturally become less flexible and more prone to injury. Shoulder impingement can also irritate the biceps tendon through repeated compression within the shoulder joint.
Sudden Trauma
- Falls, heavy lifting, sports collisions, motor vehicle accidents
Symptoms of Biceps Tendonitis and Tears
- Pain in the front of the shoulder
- Tenderness along the biceps tendon
- Pain during lifting or reaching and overhead activities
- Weakness and shoulder stiffness
- Clicking sensations within the shoulder
In cases of a complete tendon rupture, patients may also notice:
- Sudden sharp pain and a popping sensation
- Bruising and visible bulging of the biceps muscle ("Popeye" deformity)
- Significant weakness
Diagnosing Biceps Tendon Injuries
An orthopedic specialist may evaluate shoulder strength, range of motion, areas of tenderness, arm function, and signs of tendon rupture. X-rays help identify arthritis, bone spurs, and structural abnormalities. MRI provides detailed images of tendons, muscles, rotator cuff injuries, and labral tears. Ultrasound can evaluate tendon movement and detect tears in real time.
Non-Surgical Treatment Options
Many cases of biceps tendonitis improve successfully without surgery through activity modification, physical therapy to improve shoulder mechanics and strength, anti-inflammatory medications, ice therapy, and corticosteroid injections in some cases.
Surgical Treatment Options
Surgery may be recommended when conservative treatment fails, significant tendon damage is present, a complete rupture occurs, or symptoms interfere with daily activities.
Biceps Tenodesis
Biceps tenodesis involves detaching the damaged tendon from its original attachment and reattaching it to a different location on the humerus, helping reduce pain, preserve strength, and improve shoulder function.
Biceps Tenotomy
A tenotomy involves releasing the damaged tendon without reattachment and is often considered in older or lower-demand patients. Biceps tendon surgery is frequently performed alongside rotator cuff repair, labral repair, or shoulder decompression procedures.
Recovery and Rehabilitation
Recovery depends on the severity of the injury and whether surgery is required. Most patients can expect a period of activity modification, progressive physical therapy, gradual strengthening exercises, and return to daily activities as healing progresses. Patients who undergo surgery may require several months of rehabilitation before returning to full activity levels.
When Should You See an Orthopedic Specialist?
You should schedule an evaluation if you experience:
- Persistent shoulder pain or weakness during lifting
- Pain in the front of the shoulder or a popping sensation during activity
- Visible arm deformity
- Difficulty performing daily tasks
If you are experiencing shoulder pain, weakness, or symptoms of a biceps tendon injury, contact Spencer Orthopedics today to schedule a consultation and learn about your treatment options.
