Our everyday, busy lifestyle can lead to a condition known as bicep tendinitis. If you feel pain in your arm during simple tasks you may have strained your bicep muscles. Here’s what you need to know about treating a bicep strain or bicep tendinitis before it worsens.
The biceps muscle has two heads that are located in the upper arm between the shoulder and the elbow. They originate on the shoulder blade and cross the elbow joint to attach to the forearm. The two heads join to form one muscle belly and tendons attach the ends of the muscle to bone. Your biceps help to lift the arm forward, bend the elbow, and rotate the forearm. Biceps tendinitis refers to inflammation of the tendon at the shoulder or elbow as a result of repetitive or strenuous activities, such as with heavy lifting. It may also be associated with a strain or tear of the biceps muscle.
Symptoms
- Difficulty bending/ straightening the elbow
- Bruising and/or swelling of the upper arm
- Sharp pain in the front of the shoulder or elbow with movement and lifting
Causes
- Repetitive motions in work and sports
- Overhead work for long periods of time in certain occupations
- Overly strenuous activity
Physical Therapy for Biceps Strain/ Tendinitis
When you are first diagnosed with biceps strain or tendonitis you will be advised to avoid strenuous activities like lifting weights or using equipment at the gym. Your orthopedist will recommend physical therapy to help you get back to your lifestyle and avoid injuring your arm further. A physical therapist can massage the biceps muscle and manually stretch your elbow and forearm. You’ll also do stretches and exercises on your own to relieve pain and strengthen your bicep. Your physical therapy regimen will include range of motion exercises for the shoulder, elbow, and wrist as well as a gradual strengthening program once inflammation and pain improves.
For biceps that are not severely torn or constantly irritated, physical therapy is the most efficient and effective way to heal.
Dr. Leon E. Popovitz and Dr. Michael Y. Mizhiritsky, along with their team of experienced orthopedists and physicians, are dedicated to providing patients with the highest quality healthcare so they can return to the lifestyle they love. With in-office physical therapy and world renowned sports medicine specialists, NY Bone and Joint Specialists is the best place to heal faster in NYC.
