Biceps Tendinitis
Inflammation of the biceps tendon causing pain in the front of the shoulder and upper arm
Biceps tendinitis is an inflammation of the biceps tendon, which connects the biceps muscle to the shoulder joint. This condition often results in pain, weakness, and limited shoulder or arm movement. Dr Ben McGrath, an orthopaedic specialist, provides expert care for diagnosing and managing biceps tendinitis, helping patients regain mobility and reduce discomfort.
- What is Biceps Tendinitis?
- Common Symptoms of Biceps Tendinitis
- Causes and Risk Factors for Biceps Tendinitis
- Diagnosis of Biceps Tendinitis
- Non-Surgical Treatments for Biceps Tendinitis
- Surgical Treatments for Biceps Tendinitis
- When to See Dr Ben McGrath for Shoulder or Arm Pain
- FAQs About Biceps Tendinitis
What is Biceps Tendinitis?
Biceps tendinitis occurs when the long head of the biceps tendon, which runs from the biceps muscle to the top of the shoulder, becomes irritated or inflamed. Overuse or repetitive overhead activities are common causes of this condition. If left untreated, biceps tendinitis can lead to partial or complete tears of the tendon.
Common Symptoms of Biceps Tendinitis
Patients with biceps tendinitis often experience:
- Pain at the Front of the Shoulder: Discomfort that worsens with overhead activities or lifting.
- Weakness: Reduced strength in the shoulder or arm, especially during pushing, pulling, or lifting.
- Tenderness: Sensitivity to touch at the front of the shoulder, near the bicipital groove.
- Clicking or Popping Sensations: Audible or palpable sounds during shoulder or arm movement.
- Limited Range of Motion: Difficulty in fully rotating or lifting the arm.
These symptoms can range from mild to severe, depending on the extent of the inflammation or damage.
Causes and Risk Factors for Biceps Tendinitis
Biceps tendinitis is often caused by:
- Overuse: Repeated overhead motions, such as throwing, swimming, or lifting, can strain the tendon.
- Age-Related Degeneration: Tendons naturally weaken with age, making them more susceptible to inflammation.
- Shoulder Injuries: Rotator cuff tears, labral tears, or shoulder impingement can contribute to biceps tendinitis.
- Poor Posture: Forward-rounded shoulders can increase stress on the biceps tendon.
- Sports and Occupations: Activities involving repetitive shoulder use, such as tennis or manual labour, increase the risk.
Understanding these factors can help in preventing and managing the condition.
Diagnosis of Biceps Tendinitis
Dr Ben McGrath uses a comprehensive approach to diagnose biceps tendinitis:
- Medical History and Physical Examination: Evaluating symptoms, shoulder strength, and range of motion, with specific tests to identify tendon inflammation.
- Imaging Tests:
- Ultrasound or MRI: These provide detailed images of the biceps tendon and surrounding structures to confirm the diagnosis and assess the severity.
- X-rays: May be used to rule out other conditions, such as arthritis or bone spurs.
Accurate diagnosis ensures an effective and personalised treatment plan.
Non-Surgical Treatments for Biceps Tendinitis
Most cases of biceps tendinitis can be managed without surgery:
- Physiotherapy: A tailored program to strengthen the shoulder and arm muscles, improve flexibility, and restore function.
- Rest and Activity Modification: Avoiding repetitive movements that aggravate symptoms to allow the tendon to heal.
- Ice Therapy: Applying ice packs to reduce pain and swelling.
- Medications: NSAIDs can help manage pain and inflammation. Consult a healthcare provider before starting any medication.
- Corticosteroid Injections: In some cases, injections may be used to reduce inflammation and provide temporary relief.
These treatments aim to alleviate symptoms and support the tendon’s natural healing process.
Surgical Treatments for Biceps Tendinitis
Surgery may be necessary for severe or persistent cases, especially if the tendon is partially or completely torn. Options include:
- Biceps Tenodesis: The damaged portion of the biceps tendon is removed, and the tendon is reattached to the upper arm bone (humerus).
- Biceps Tenotomy: The tendon is released from its attachment, allowing it to rest and reduce pain.
- Shoulder Arthroscopy: A minimally invasive procedure to address underlying shoulder conditions, such as rotator cuff tears or labral injuries, that may contribute to biceps tendinitis.
Dr McGrath carefully evaluates each case and discusses the most appropriate surgical options with patients, ensuring a clear understanding of the recovery process.
When to See Dr Ben McGrath for Shoulder or Arm Pain
If you experience persistent shoulder or arm pain, weakness, or difficulty performing daily activities, a consultation with Dr McGrath can provide an accurate diagnosis and effective treatment plan to restore comfort and mobility.
FAQs About Biceps Tendinitis
Yes, many cases improve with physiotherapy, rest, and activity modification. Surgery is usually reserved for severe or persistent cases.
Recovery times vary, but mild cases often improve within weeks, while post-surgical recovery may take 3–6 months with proper rehabilitation.
Maintaining good posture, strengthening shoulder muscles, and avoiding repetitive overhead activities can reduce the risk of developing biceps tendinitis.