BICEPS TENDON
RUPTURE

On the front side of a person’s upper arm is the bicep muscle. This muscle helps the arm flex, rotate, and bend. The bicep muscle is attached to the bone by tendons. Tendons are strong connective tissue that attaches the muscle to the bones on the shoulder and the elbow. The tendons help the bicep muscle function properly. However, ruptures can occur to the tendon either through trauma or overuse. Usually this rupture occurs when unexpected force is placed -on the bicep muscle. A bicep tendon rupture is when a tear occurs to one of the tendons that attaches the bicep to the shoulder.  

Causes

People who are middle aged, between ages 40 to 60 years old, are more prone to bicep tendon ruptures. This is because the tendon has experienced years of constant wear. This age group who experiences a bicep tendon rupture usually suffered from long time shoulder problems and pain. However, ruptures can occur to anyone. 

Younger athletes can also be prone to bicep tendon ruptures when their bodies undergo constant and aggressive movement. A person who constantly overuses the bicep can experience a bicep tendon rupture. People who are into activities like swimming, tennis, baseball, golfing or other sports are more prone to bicep tendon ruptures. There are several different causes of bicep tendon ruptures. Some of these include: 

• Trauma (such as using the arm to break a fall
• Repetitive motions (such as throwing)
• Overuse
• Lifting heavy objects

When a rupture occurs it’s important to get treatment immediately. There are certain symptoms a person can watch for to determine if they have a bicep tendon rupture.

Symptoms

Some of the symptoms of a bicep tendon rupture include:

• A sharp pain in the shoulder
• A snapping or popping sound
• Bulging muscle above the elbow
• Swelling 
• Bruising 
• Weakness when bending the elbow 

Treatment

At Davis Orthopedics we specialize in treatment for bicep tendon ruptures. Our goal is to get all our patients out of pain and back to their everyday activities. When a person comes into our Prescott Valley, Arizona office showing signs of a bicep tendon rupture our physician will first take a thorough medical history.

After a medical history is completed, the doctor will examine the area. Examining the area, feeling the muscle and tendon, and seeing what position causes discomfort is the best way to diagnose a bicep tendon rupture. If necessary x-rays may also be taken to diagnose and provide the optimal treatment plan for each patient’s unique case. 

Treatment can vary depending on whether the tear is complete or partial. If the tear is a partial tear a more conservative treatment may be used. Treatment may consist of rest, ice, anti-inflammatory medications, and physical therapy. Severe complete tears may require surgical treatment. If you believe you may have experienced a bicep tendon rupture call Davis Orthopedics today. Our experienced Prescott Valley Arizona team is ready to help you get out of pain and back to everyday activities.