Biceps Tendonitis

Where does biceps tendonitis occur?

Biceps tendonitis most commonly affects the long head of the biceps tendon, the tendon that attaches the long head of the biceps brachii muscle on the front of the upper arm to the shoulder. This section of the biceps tendon passes through the shoulder joint and attaches to the superior (upper) labrum in the shoulder. The long head biceps tendon is often placed under great strain during athletic activities or repetitive motions, making it susceptible to developing biceps tendonitis or even partial tearing. Biceps tendonitis can also occur in the short head biceps tendon or both segments of the tendon. However, it occurs most commonly in the long head biceps tendon. Dr. Joseph Lamplot, orthopedic shoulder surgeon, treats patients in Arlington Heights, Kildeer, Lake Zurich, Barrington, and the surrounding Northwest Suburbs of Chicago, IL, who have symptoms associated with biceps tendonitis.

What causes biceps tendonitis?

Repetitive overhead motions of the shoulder and upper arm such as those performed by athletes and manual laborers are a common cause of biceps tendonitis. It is also a very common condition in patients over the age of 40. These repetitive motions can cause inflammation and tiny tears within the tendon that cause tendonitis. Additionally, biceps tendonitis can occur as a result of injuries to other parts of the shoulder, which may place extra strain on the biceps tendon, resulting in tendonitis. These associated conditions include shoulder impingement, rotator cuff injuries, or direct trauma to the shoulder or upper arm.

What are the most common symptoms of biceps tendonitis?

• Pain in the shoulder while moving the upper arm or moving the arm above the head
• Pain that starts in the front of the shoulder and moves down the upper arm
• Constant, dull ache within the shoulder that worsens throughout the day and becomes worse with activity
• Uncomfortable snapping or catching sensation in the shoulder during movement

How is Biceps tendonitis diagnosed?

Dr. Lamplot will first discuss a detailed medical history with the patient with a focus on previous injuries, physical activity, and the patient’s concerns. He will also perform a physical exam to assess range of motion, presence of tenderness, and other signs or symptoms of biceps tendonitis. Dr. Lamplot may request further diagnostic imaging tests such as MRI scans or X-ray scans. These scans will give him additional information regarding the state of the patient’s shoulder and upper arm to make a definitive diagnosis. Following a diagnosis, Dr. Lamplot will discuss treatment options that are best for the patient.

What can be done for biceps tendonitis?

Non-Surgical:

• Rest, Ice, Elevation, and Compression (RICE) of the shoulder and/or upper arm
• Pain management utilizing Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs)
• Corticosteroid injections to reduce swelling and pain
• Physical therapy tailored to the patient to strengthen the muscles of the arm and shoulder, improve range of motion, and prevent further injury or strain on the biceps tendon

Surgical:

• Biceps tenodesis: This is a surgical procedure where Dr. Lamplot will make a small incision to remove any damaged sections of the biceps tendon. He will then reconnect the healthy segments of the tendon to the humerus (upper arm bone) to restore the function of the shoulder and upper arm
• Biceps tenotomy: This procedure is performed in select cases depending on patient age, activity level, and body habitus. Dr. Lamplot will release the biceps tendon from its attachment point in the shoulder.

Biceps Tendonitis Specialist