Bicep Tendinitis

A painful type of inflammation in the bicep is known as bicep tendonitis. This type of inflammation impacts the tendon that connects the bones of the shoulder to the bicep. It can be rather painful and you want to seek treatment if you are suffering pain in your bicep.

If you’re suffering from bicep tendinitis, you need to seek the right Orthopedic Sports Medicine Surgeon in Atlanta. Dr. John Andrachuk provides extensive experience when it comes to treating bicep tendinitis and other sports injuries.

What is Bicep Tendinitis?

Bicep tendinitis is a type of inflammation that impacts the tendon that connects the biceps muscle to the shoulder bones. The early stages of this injury will include swelling and inflammation. As bicep tendinitis develops, the covering might thicken or the tendon can grow larger or thicken.

Sometimes, bicep tendinitis can lead to a complete or partial tear of the tendon. If a complete tendon tear happens, it can lead to a deformity in the arm.

What Causes Bicep Tendinitis?

The most common causes of bicep tendinitis include overuse and pre-existing shoulder injuries. It’s common for athletes to suffer this type of condition from the repetitive throwing-type motion of the arm. However, any repetitive shoulder motion can cause bicep tendinitis.

While athletes often suffer this type of injury, it can be caused by routine chores and jobs. If you’re performing repetitive overhead motion regularly, you may be at risk for bicep tendinitis. It’s very common in swimming, baseball, and tennis, as well.

Symptoms of Bicep Tendinitis

The most common symptom associated with bicep tendinitis is a pain in the front of the shoulder. This pay will become more severe when performing an overhead activity, especially overhead lifting. The pain may also move down the upper arm bone.

In some cases, you might hear a snapping sound or feel this type of sensation in your shoulder. If the tendon ruptures, a sudden pop sound might be heard. Swelling, bruising, and pain will follow, if the tendon ruptures.

Diagnosing Bicep Tendinitis

A physical examination will be the first step in diagnosing bicep tendinitis. your doctor will assess the range of motion of your shoulder and your strength. They will have you do several physical tests to check the function of your bicep.

Along with a physical exam, it’s common to use X-rays, MRIs, and ultrasound to diagnose bicep tendinitis.

Bicep Tendinitis Treatment

With proper treatment, bicep tendinitis can heal. RICE therapy is the first type of treatment, which will include rest, ice, compression, and elevation. It may also be necessary to use NSAIDs, such as ibuprofen or naproxen to reduce the swelling and pain. Steroid injections may also be used as an anti-inflammatory for this injury.

Physical therapy is a very common treatment option for bicep tendinitis, as well. By using specific strengthening and stretching exercises, you can gain a range of motion back and strength in your shoulder.

If your bicep tendinitis doesn’t improve with nonsurgical treatments, you may need to undergo surgery. This may be necessary if you have other shoulder problems, as well. Surgery for bicep tendinitis is typically arthroscopic surgery. Your doctor will be able to assess the tendon and the structure of the shoulder during this surgery.

Sometimes, the bicep tendon can be repaired. In other cases, the damaged section will be removed and the remaining tendon will be reattached.

A tenotomy may also be used, which releases the damaged biceps tendon from its attachment. This surgery is used when the tendon is damaged to the extent that it cannot be repaired.

Bicep Tendinitis Recovery Time

Your recovery time will vary with bicep tendinitis, depending on how severe the condition and the treatment method used. It’s best to speak with your doctor about what to expect. Often, you will need to use a sling for a few weeks after surgery. You will likely have your activities restricted.

Another part of recovering from bicep tendinitis will likely be therapeutic exercise or physical therapy. This may last a few weeks or longer.

Schedule an Appointment Today!

Dr. Andrachuk provides extensive experience in treating bicep tendonitis. If you have suffered a bicep injury during athletic activity or you’re experiencing bicep pain, it is time to seek medical help. Dr. Andrachuk offers conservative treatments, along with the best astroscopic and minimally invasive techniques available to get you back on the field as soon as possible. Contact us today and schedule your in-person or telemedicine appointment!