Biceps Tendinitis

Understanding Biceps Tendinitis

Biceps tendinitis is inflammation or irritation of the long head of the biceps tendon, where it runs through the bicipital groove at the front of the shoulder. Early on the tendon becomes red and swollen; over time the tendon sheath can thicken and the tendon can fray, which may eventually lead to a tear.

Biceps tendinitis usually develops from wear and repetitive overhead activity, and it frequently occurs alongside other shoulder problems such as rotator cuff tears, impingement, arthritis or instability. Treating the associated problem is often part of treating the biceps.

Most patients improve with rest, therapy and anti-inflammatory treatment. If pain continues, biceps tenodesis or tenotomy, often combined with treatment of other shoulder problems, reliably relieves symptoms.

Causes & Risk Factors

• Repetitive overhead motion in swimming, tennis, baseball and manual work
• Normal tendon wear with age
• Rotator cuff tears and impingement
• Shoulder instability and labral tears

Symptoms

Common signs and symptoms of Biceps Tendinitis include:

• Pain or tenderness at the front of the shoulder that worsens with overhead lifting
• Pain that travels down the front of the upper arm
• An occasional snapping sound or sensation in the shoulder
• Pain at night

Treatment Options

Treatment for Biceps Tendinitis depends on the severity of your condition and may include:

• Rest and avoiding overhead activity
• Ice and anti-inflammatory medications
• Physical therapy for range of motion and strength
• Ultrasound-guided corticosteroid injection into the tendon sheath
• Arthroscopic biceps tenodesis or tenotomy when nonsurgical care fails