Biceps Tendon Disorders

Understanding Biceps Tendon Disorders

The biceps muscle has two tendons at the shoulder: the long head, which attaches inside the shoulder joint, and the short head. Problems with the long head biceps tendon are common and can cause significant shoulder pain. Dr. Joshi treats the full spectrum of biceps tendon disorders.

SLAP tears (Superior Labrum Anterior to Posterior) affect where the biceps tendon attaches to the labrum at the top of the shoulder socket. These often occur in overhead athletes or from falls onto an outstretched hand.

Biceps tendinitis is inflammation of the tendon, often occurring with rotator cuff problems. Biceps tendon ruptures can occur at the shoulder (proximal) or elbow (distal), causing weakness and cosmetic deformity.

Causes & Risk Factors

• Repetitive overhead activities
• Acute injury from lifting or falling
• Degenerative changes with aging
• Associated rotator cuff tears
• Sports requiring overhead throwing
• Impingement and chronic irritation

Symptoms

Common signs and symptoms of biceps tendon disorders include:

• Pain at the front of the shoulder
• Pain that worsens with overhead activities
• Clicking or popping in the shoulder
• Pain with lifting or carrying objects
• Weakness with elbow flexion (in ruptures)
• Visible deformity ("Popeye muscle" with ruptures)
• Night pain in severe cases

Treatment Options

Treatment for biceps tendon disorders depends on the severity of your condition and may include:

• Rest and activity modification
• Physical therapy
• Anti-inflammatory medications
• Corticosteroid injections
• Biceps tenodesis (reattaching tendon)
• Biceps tenotomy (releasing tendon)
• SLAP repair for appropriate candidates