Treatment and Clinical Outcomes of Bicep Tendonitis

Biceps tendinitis describes inflammation of the tendon in the biceps muscle. This inflammation causes pain in the front portions of the upper arm and shoulder.

Causes

This type of tendinitis commonly occurs due to a sports injury, often involving overuse of the shoulder and arm.

Treatment

Biceps tendinitis usually does not require surgery and may be treated effectively with a combination of different approaches. Medications, physical exercises and use of ice packs can relieve tendinitis.

Types of Medication

Anti-inflammatory drugs can reduce inflammation and pain. Corticosteroid injections may also be used directly at the site of inflammation.

Recovery

It may take some time to recover completely from biceps tendinitis. Mild injuries can heal within just a few weeks, whereas more serious injuries may take more than six weeks to heal.

When to Resume Activity

Patients should avoid activity that aggravates the tendon. You can return to normal activity when you can freely move the shoulder without feeling pain and you have full strength in the afflicted joint.

References

• University of Michigan Health System; Biceps Tendonitis and Strain

Resources

• American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons: Biceps Tendinitis of the Shoulder