Biceps Tendinopathy
What is it?
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The long head of biceps is approximately 9cm long and passes through a groove in the upper arm bone (Humerus).
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Biceps tendinopathy occurs when the long head of biceps becomes irritated leading to pain at the front of the shoulder.
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It is often associated with rotator cuff problems but can also occur alone.
Typical Symptoms/features:
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Pain at the front of the shoulder.
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Pain with lifting activities, overhead activities or bending of the elbow underweight.
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May be painful if stretched, with the elbow out straight.
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Pain when reaching behind your back.
Management:
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Activity modification
- When you first start noticing shoulder pain, it may help to reduce your activity for a short amount of time to allow the pain to settle.
- However, there is strong evidence that says keeping active and slowly returning to your normal levels of activity can actually help the pain to settle quicker.
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Ice or heat.
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Pain relief.
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Physiotherapy including range of movement exercises and a graded strengthening programme.
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In more severe and/or prolonged cases where pain is limiting conservative measures OR where 3-6 months of conservative management have failed to manage symptoms, a corticosteroid injection may be considered.
Do I need imaging?
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Imaging (X-rays or scans) is rarely required to biceps tendinopathy.
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X-rays and scans are most appropriately used after a serious injury.
