What is Biceps Tendinitis?

Biceps tendinitis refers to irritation in the higher biceps tendon, also known as the long head of the biceps tendon. This can arise due to repetitive overhead motions or surprising, strenuous activities. Athletes engaged in sports like badminton, swimming, tennis, and golfing are mainly at risk of this type of tendinitis. It typically coexists with different shoulder problems such as arthritis, dislocated shoulder, or shoulder impingement syndrome.

What are Symptoms of Biceps Tendinitis?

Individuals with biceps tendonitis might have pain or tenderness in the front of the shoulder, which worsens with movement or arm elevation. Upper arm muscle ache that extends down the arm, accompanied by means of snapping sensations or sounds in the shoulder, may occur.

Pain may Worsen with overhead activities like lifting or reaching objects.

What are Causes of Biceps Tendinitis?

✓ Overuse and repetitive strain on the tendons during daily sports make contributions to biceps tendonitis.

✓ Age: As individuals age, the tendons evidently degrade, making them greater at risk of damage.

✓ Sports:  Athletes requiring repetitive overhead motions are at higher chance.

✓ Diabetes

✓ Overweight Obese

Complications of Biceps Tendinitis

1. Biceps Tears: Severe or non-stop overuse can result in biceps tears, either complete or partial. Tears may additionally result from damage or unexpected twisting motions, causing weak point and pain.

2. Distal Biceps Tendon Tears: Tears within the distal biceps tendon, which attaches to the elbow, are less common but usually arise because of injury or heavy lifting. Complete tears cause weakness in activities requiring palm-up moves.

How is Biceps Tendinitis Diagnosed?

Diagnosing a Biceps Tendinitis commonly involves a Physical examination by Dr. Vishal Mandlewala at Renison Knee and Shoulder Clinic.  Additional tests may be advised based on your physical examination:

X-rays, MRI or ultrasound: To confirm prognosis and examine tendon harm.

What is Treatment of Biceps Tendinitis?

Noninvasive Treatment: The initial remedy generally involves noninvasive techniques along with relaxation, cold packs, NSAIDs, physical therapy to reduce inflammation and pain.

Surgical Treatment: If conservative measures fail, surgery can be endorsed. Arthroscopic processes like biceps tenodesis or tenotomy can be done to take away damaged tendon portions or reattach the tendon to the top arm bone.

Take Home Message:

Understanding biceps tendonitis, its causes, signs, and treatment  by Dr. Vishal Mandlewala- Renison Knee and Shoulder Clinic empowers patients to try to find appropriate care and control pain efficaciously.