Physical Therapy for Bicep Tendonitis

The biceps tendon connects the biceps muscle in the upper arm to the elbow. The tendon acts like a tough connective tissue. The inflammation of this tendon is bicep tendinitis. Physical therapy can help reduce pain and regain mobility.

Causes

Some of the causes of biceps tendinitis include:

• a fall that injures the shoulder
• excessive weight lifting
• overuse from recreational and sports-related activities
• a sudden twisting motion of the shoulder

Symptoms

1. Pain at the front of the shoulder joint that extends down the arm i.e. the biceps muscle.
2. Weakness in the shoulder
3. Decreased range of motion of the shoulder joint
4. A visible change in the shape and appearance of the front of the arm

Once a diagnosis is confirmed using evaluation techniques and an ultrasound scan, conservative treatment involves rest, ice and progressive physical therapy. Medical treatment involves the use of over-the-counter pain relievers. In extreme cases, surgery may be required. An orthopedic surgeon can relieve swelling by opening the lining around the tendon and removing the inflamed tissue. Physical therapy plays a significant role in post-surgical recovery.

Prevention Tips

If you are engaged in ongoing, repetitive arm activity at work or home, make sure to rest periodically and do the following:

• Massage the shoulder, arm, and elbow
• Stretch the muscles surrounding the shoulder and elbow
• If your arm is tingling, feeling numb, or aching, it is time to see your physician. If ignored, the condition can become painful and disabling.

Treatment
Your physical therapist will help you avoid motions and positions that cause pain.
Once the pain subsides, manual therapy and therapeutic exercise begin. The therapist will create a plan for:

• Muscle strengthening
• Joint mobility
• Postural retraining
• Supporting the shoulder and arm in a sling
• Ergonomic intervention
• Facilitating a safe home environment

Biceps tendinitis is a condition that may seem like a minor inconvenience at first, but it should not be ignored. If left untreated, it can lead to severe pain and limited movement in the elbow joint, affecting everyday activities such as writing, working on a computer, lifting objects, driving, and doing household chores.

A comprehensive pain relief and healing plan that involves cooperation between your doctor and physical therapist is crucial for long-term recovery. Physical therapy plays a significant role in both preventing and rehabilitating the shoulder and elbow joints after surgery.

A physical therapist can develop a personalized recovery and rehabilitation program consisting of various treatment procedures and techniques to promote the healing of the biceps tendon and improve mobility in the shoulder and elbow joints. If you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms of biceps tendinitis or any other condition impacting strength and movement, we are here to help. As your trusted physical therapists, we are dedicated to using our expertise and genuine concern for your well-being to help you regain function as swiftly as possible and help you get back in the game.