Biceps Tendinitis Infographic
Biceps tendinitis occurs when the biceps tendon in the shoulder joint becomes irritated and inflamed due to repetitive overhead movements. Biceps tendinitis is a common cause of shoulder pain and is associated with sharp pain in the front of the shoulder that worsens when engaging in overhead motion.
The biceps tendon attaches the biceps muscle to the bones of the shoulder and elbow joints. The tendon is comprised of strands of collagen that allow the tendon to withstand forces that pull both ends of the tendon in order to move the arm or shoulder. With biceps tendinitis, the biceps tendon becomes inflamed and swollen. As tendinitis progresses, the sheath of the tendon thickens and can grow larger.
Symptoms of biceps tendinitis include sharp pain in the front of the shoulder when reaching overhead, behind the back, across the body, or when throwing; tenderness to touch at the front of the shoulder; pain radiating toward the neck or down the front of the arm; a dull ache of pain at the front of the shoulder after activity; weakness felt around the shoulder joint and decreased range of motion; visible change in shape and appearance of the front of the arm; a sensation of catching or clicking in the front of the shoulder with movement; and pain when resting that becomes worse at night.
Biceps tendinitis can result from repetitive overhead activities like weightlifting, work tasks, or sports like tennis, swimming or baseball; weakness of the rotator cuff muscles and upper back muscles or due to a rotator cuff tear; shoulder joint hypermobility; poor posture; abrupt increase in the intensity and volume of exercise routine; trauma to the shoulder from a direct blow or fall; and gradual development from daily wear and tear and the process of aging.
Physical therapy offers effective treatment for biceps tendinitis to manage pain and restore range of motion, strength, and mobility to the shoulder joint and biceps tendon. Physical therapy treatment for biceps tendinitis can include manual therapy to the shoulder, neck, and biceps muscle to mobilize the joints, soft tissues, and muscles to improve range of motion and mobility. The therapist also guides the patient through stretching and strengthening exercises to regain strength, range of motion, and coordination in the shoulder, targeting the rotator cuff muscles and biceps muscles to relieve pressure on the biceps tendon. The patient also engages in functional training and simulation of daily tasks, work activities, and sport-specific actions to ensure proper shoulder position, posture, and body mechanics to minimize stress on the biceps tendon.
Biceps tendinitis is a common cause of debilitating shoulder pain that can limit your daily tasks, work, and sports activities. Working with a physical therapist can help you manage pain and restore mobility and function to the shoulder quickly and effectively!
