×
London | Manchester | Bedford
Open Mon-Sat 9-6pm

Bicep Tendon Tear

In this article, you will learn everything you need to know about bicep tendon tears and the most effective ways to treat it, including an advanced treatment called Prolotherapy.

Understanding the Bicep Tendon Tear: Essential Guide to Causes, Diagnosis, and Recovery

A bicep tendon tear, often marked by sudden arm pain or a notable ‘pop’, is a severe injury that affects the strength and motion of your arm. This article breaks down the two types of bicep tendon tears—partial and complete—and provides insights into their causes, signs, and non-nonsurgical recovery paths.

Key Takeaways

  • A bicep tendon tear, impairing elbow bending and forearm rotation, can be partial or complete and commonly affects men over 30, smokers, obese individuals, and those with chronic conditions.
  • Symptoms include sudden, severe arm pain, often with a ‘pop’ sound. They can lead to a ‘Popeye Muscle’ appearance, while diagnosis involves physical examination, imaging tests, and specialized manoeuvres like Speed’s or Yergason’s tests.
  • Treatment ranges from nonsurgical like rest, ice, and NSAIDs to surgical repair in severe cases, with prevention through safe weightlifting and avoidance of overusing the tendon and coping requiring lifestyle modifications and possibly mental health support.

Bicep Tendon Tear Overview

Bicep on a physical muscle system model

Located at the front of the upper arm, the biceps muscle comprises two parts that connect to both shoulder bones and directly to the radius bone in the elbow. This connection is crucial for enabling forearm rotation and elbow flexion. When these tendons become injured or detach from their attachments on the bone, a condition known as a biceps tendon tear occurs. Such an injury drastically reduces the ability of this muscle to perform its role in bending at the elbow or rotating.

These tears within either head can range from partial, wherein only part of a tendon is severed, to complete tears, which involve total detachment from where it’s anchored onto bone structures.

Proximal Bicep Tendon Tears

Tears of the proximal biceps tendon, which involve damage to the tendon’s long head, commonly occur in the shoulder area. Notably, during such events, the short head of the biceps remains intact, allowing for a certain degree of function even when a proximal biceps tendon tear occurs.

Despite experiencing a complete rupture of its long head, individuals can frequently continue to utilize their biceps muscle—albeit with some restrictions. This remarkable ability of the biceps muscle to still operate illustrates our body’s intricate structure and ability to adjust in response to injury.

Distal Bicep Tendon Tears

Conversely, ruptures of the proximal biceps tendon and tears in the distal bicep tendon situated at the elbow are rarer but considerably more severe. Such injuries often stem from sudden trauma or lifting a substantial weight.

An apparent separation near the front part of the elbow can indicate a tear in the distal biceps tendon. In instances where there is a complete tear, it results in total detachment of muscle from bone with subsequent retraction toward the shoulder area. This leads to significant weakness and distortion within the muscular structure.

Causes and Risk Factors

A tear in the bicep tendon can result primarily from injury or overexertion of the bicep muscle. Additional causes, such as performing awkward motions or incidents like falling and landing on an extended arm, may also lead to this ailment. If left untreated, a condition known as biceps tendinitis, often arising from repetitive use of the muscle, could eventually escalate into a full-blown tear.

Both demographic and lifestyle considerations influence risk factors for tearing one’s bicep tendon. Notably impacted are men who have surpassed 30 years of age.

Engaging in smoking habits, carrying excess weight (obesity), and having specific chronic health issues are contributing elements that elevate one’s likelihood of experiencing a tear in their bicep tendon.

Symptoms and Signs

Man holding his bicep which he has torn the tendon

When a biceps tendon tear occurs, it is typically quite evident due to the:

  • Immediate and intense pain that manifests either in the upper arm or at the elbow.
  • Possibility of hearing a ‘pop’ sound or feeling such a sensation when the injury takes place.
  • Subsequently, the emergence of an abnormal muscle bulge colloquially referred to as ‘Popeye Muscle,’ appears in the upper arm above the elbow, indicating an alteration in muscular shape.

Following this type of tendon tear, those affected may notice.

  • A discernible weakening within their shoulder or elbow strength.
  • Difficulty with tasks requiring rotation of their arms from positions where palms face down to ones where they are turned up.
  • The appearance of bruising on both parts – whether on part/s near around/within proximity/immediately surrounding/etc. Elbow (upper arm) OR forearm – serving as additional visual evidence indicative/signifying/corroborative/etc. Of said physical trauma/injury/damage/harm/etc.

Diagnostic Methods

Diagnosing a biceps tendon tear involves conducting a physical examination to look for signs of arm muscle abnormality and pain triggered by engaging the biceps muscle. Diagnostic techniques such as Speed’s Test and Yergason’s Test are applied to delve deeper into suspected issues with the biceps tendon.

Subsequently, imaging modalities come into play to offer an intricate view of the damage sustained. These can include:

  • X-rays: typically used first to dismiss problems associated with bones
  • MRI scans: these scans yield comprehensive images of soft tissues, enabling the detection of both partial and complete tears in the distal biceps tendon
  • Ultrasonography: similar to MRI in providing detailed views capable of identifying varying degrees of injury within soft tissues

On certain occasions, specific tests like the Hook Test may be employed to examine the condition or wholeness of the distal portion specifically.

Non-Surgicalment Options

Treatment options for tears of the proximal biceps tendon that do not involve surgery typically consist of:

  • Applying cold packs or ice to alleviate pain and minimize swelling
  • Taking a break from activities that could worsen the injury
  • Using non-prescription NSAIDs to diminish inflammation, swelling, and discomfort

These approaches are usually considered initial treatment strategies for managing symptoms associated with bicep tendon tears.

Sometimes, patients may be advised to use a sling temporarily to promote healing. Physical therapy is vital for restoring functionality and circumventing surgical intervention. Rehabilitative exercises aim at strengthening the muscles around the tear while working towards reclaiming as much movement and function as possible.

Prolotherapy

In recent years, Prolotherapy has built its reputation within the medical community for its clinically proven ability to treat bicep tendon tears.

Published research has proven its pain-relieving, anti-inflammatory and regenerative benefits.

Prolotherapy involves injecting a natural regenerative solution with tiny needles. This has been shown to stimulate the production of collagen cells, the small cells needed to repair the damage and help bicep tendon tears.

As prolotherapy is helping to treat the root cause of bicep tendon tears, it is deemed to be a permanent fix, preventing the symptoms from returning.

Surgical Intervention

In cases where the damage is severe, especially when involving distal biceps tendon tears, surgical intervention may become necessary. Such procedures as distal biceps tendon repair are aimed at reattaching the torn tendon to its original position on the bone. They tend to be most effective if performed shortly after the injury.

The post-surgery recovery process includes a phase of immobilization followed by gradual exercises intended to regain flexibility, strength, and functional use in the arm throughout 3 to 4 months. Patients need to recognize that with any surgery comes possible risks, including complications such as nerve damage, stiffness in the elbow joint, recurrence of a torn tendon or cosmetic changes to how their arm looks.

Prevention Tips

It is always more beneficial to prevent than to treat. Utilizing proper weightlifting practices, which include executing elbow flexion movements slowly and with control using weights that are not too heavy, can significantly diminish the likelihood of sustaining injuries to the bicep tendon. Care should also be taken during workout sessions not to stretch or place undue pressure on the biceps tendon overly.

Adding seated rows to your fitness regimen can help bolster the muscles surrounding your shoulder blades, leading to better shoulder function and a lower chance of developing biceps tendonitis. It’s also essential to avoid engaging in activities that might lead to repetitive use, a common cause of tendons-related problems.

Coping with Bicep Tendon Tear

The path to recovery from a bicep tendon tear typically involves adjusting everyday tasks, such as getting dressed and preparing meals, to minimize pain and promote healing. It is crucial during recovery to avoid any actions that might provoke discomfort or pain in the affected arm.

Seeking emotional and mental health assistance through counselling or participating in support groups can significantly aid in coping with the changes and limitations imposed by an injury. It’s advantageous to rely on help from family members, friends, or professional caregivers when facing activities that may prove overly demanding while recovering.

Associated Conditions

Remember, a tear in the biceps tendon doesn’t usually occur in isolation. It may be associated with other shoulder issues, such as injuries to the rotator cuff, impingement, or tendinitis. This complexity requires additional diagnostic evaluations and treatments.

It’s important not to mistake biceps tendinitis for a biceps tendon tear. While both affect the long head of the biceps tendon, tendinitis is inflammation typically caused by repetitive use or degeneration of the shoulder. Accurate diagnosis is critical to identifying and addressing all related conditions effectively.

Summary

From understanding the anatomy of the biceps and the different types of tendon tears to exploring diagnostic procedures, treatment options, and prevention tips, we’ve covered various topics surrounding bicep tendon tears. Remember, whether you’re a fitness enthusiast or just someone trying to maintain an active lifestyle, understanding these concepts can be crucial in aiding your recovery journey and helping to prevent future injuries.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a bicep tendon tear heal itself?

Natural healing of complete biceps tendon tears does not occur because the biceps muscle retracts the tendon into the arm. Consequently, surgical repair might be necessary for recovery.

How do you know if your bicep tendon is torn?

Should you feel a “pop” accompanied by severe pain in the vicinity of your shoulder or elbow and notice bruising and swelling along your arm, this may suggest that you have sustained a torn bicep tendon. Obtaining professional medical care promptly is crucial to ensure an exact diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Do all bicep tendon tears need surgery?

Most bicep tendon tears can be treated with nonsurgical methods like physical therapy and rest, but minimally invasive surgery called arthroscopy may be necessary for repair in some cases.

Seek immediate medical attention for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

What happens if a bicep tendon tear is left untreated?

Neglecting a tear in the bicep tendon may result in shortening and scarring of both muscle and tendon, complicating any future surgical repair that might be required.

Consequently, obtaining medical care for appropriate treatment is crucial when dealing with a bicep tendon tear.

Where are your biceps?

Your biceps are situated at the front of your upper arm, stretching from the shoulder to the elbow. These dual-headed muscles play a crucial role in the elbow and twisting of the forearm.

Read more: