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Contents
  • Conservative Treatment: The First Line of Defense
  • When Surgery Becomes Necessary
  • The Role of Rehabilitation

Treating Biceps Tendon Injuries: From Rest to Surgery

Treating Biceps Tendon Injuries: From Rest to Surgery

The Road to Recovery

Biceps tendon injuries can be painful and disruptive, but there's good news: most can be effectively treated. The right approach depends on the type and severity of your injury, as well as your personal health and activity goals.
Contents
  • Conservative Treatment: The First Line of Defense
  • When Surgery Becomes Necessary
  • The Role of Rehabilitation

Conservative Treatment: The First Line of Defense

For many biceps tendon injuries, especially mild to moderate cases, conservative treatment is the go-to approach. This typically includes rest, ice to reduce inflammation, and over-the-counter pain medications. Physical therapy plays a crucial role, helping to strengthen the surrounding muscles and improve flexibility. In some cases, your doctor might recommend a corticosteroid injection to reduce inflammation and pain.

When Surgery Becomes Necessary

While many biceps tendon injuries respond well to conservative treatment, some may require surgical intervention. This is often the case for complete tears, especially of the distal biceps tendon (near the elbow). Surgery might also be recommended for active individuals or athletes with partial tears that don't improve with conservative care. The specific surgical technique depends on the location and nature of the injury.
A condition characterized by damage to the tendon that connects the biceps muscle to the shoulder or elbow, often caused by overuse or trauma.

The Role of Rehabilitation

Whether you've had conservative treatment or surgery, rehabilitation is key to a full recovery. This usually involves a structured physical therapy program. Early on, the focus is on gentle range of motion exercises. As healing progresses, strengthening exercises are introduced. The goal is to restore function and prevent future injuries.

FAQs

How long does recovery take?

Recovery time varies from weeks to months depending on injury severity and treatment.

Will I regain full strength after a biceps tendon injury?

Most people regain full or near-full strength with proper treatment and rehabilitation.

Can I treat a biceps tendon injury at home?

Minor injuries may improve with home care, but professional evaluation is recommended.

Are there risks to biceps tendon surgery?

As with any surgery, there are risks, but complications are generally rare.

Can I prevent future biceps tendon injuries?

Proper form during activities and gradual increases in exercise intensity can help.

The Path Forward

With the right treatment approach and dedication to rehabilitation, most people can overcome biceps tendon injuries and return to their normal activities.
If you're dealing with a biceps tendon injury, consider discussing your treatment options with Doctronic to find the best path forward for your unique situation.
Additional References
  1. Wilk KE, Hooks TR. The Painful Long Head of the Biceps Brachii: Nonoperative Treatment Approaches. Clin Sports Med 2016; 35:75.
  2. Virk MS, Cole BJ. Proximal Biceps Tendon and Rotator Cuff Tears. Clin Sports Med 2016; 35:153.
  3. Schickendantz M, King D. Nonoperative Management (Including Ultrasound-Guided Injections) of Proximal Biceps Disorders. Clin Sports Med 2016; 35:57.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic.