Biceps tendonitis

What is it?

Biceps tendonitis is inflammation of the tenon at the top of the biceps muscle in the upper arm. There are two tendons that run up and attach to the shoulder blade and the shoulder socket. The one that more commonly gets inflamed is called the long head of biceps tendon. A possible reason is because it runs through a narrow groove before attaching onto the shoulder socket. It can sometimes ‘flick’ out of the groove causing irritation and inflammation. Why this happens is almost always multifactorial, it could happen to someone fit and active or someone who lives a sedentary lifestyle. In our clinic we have seen it happen to runners due to the repetitive nature and movement of the upper arms whilst running. Biceps tendonitis can be extremely painful, it can cause difficulties sleeping and it can cause severe weakness. The good news is it will get better and will probably make 100% recovery but it will take time.

Our advice

Pain-killers are needed here, not everyone likes taking them but the inflammation is going to cause pain. Anti-inflammatories, ice and even heat at some point. Seek advice and reassurance from your physiotherapist or osteopath, or your GP if needed. Under the advice of your physio or osteopath stop activities such as running or weights for a short period of time.

How we treat biceps tendonitis

At Get Strong physiotherapy & osteopathy our aim is to offer advice to help reduce inflammation so that treatment and movement doesn’t flare it up too much. Your upper back and ribs will be worked on with mobilisations and massage to help with movement around the biceps tendon. Graded weight bearing and movement exercises will be given to get the shoulder moving and feeling strong again. As well as discussing a plan to return to activities and sports, we will offer advice on how to prevent it from happening again.