Bicep Tendon Tear

Tendons are the structures which connect the muscles to the bones. Bicep muscle is located at the front of the upper arm and is responsible for elevation or rotation of the upper arm. On the upper end, the bicep tendons connect the bicep muscle to the bones of the shoulder i.e scapula, collarbone (clavicle) and humerus.

The bicep tendons at the other end connect the bicep muscle with an elbow joint. Bicep tendon injury can occur at any part of the tendon. Bicep tendon tear is said to have occurred when any of the bicep tendons rupture.

They are classified according to the extent of the tear. They can be either partial or complete. Partial tears are the ones which do not sever the tendon entirely, while complete tears split the tendon in pieces. Bicep tendon tear can also be distinguished depending upon the location at which the rupture occurs.

The most common cause of bicep tendon tear is an injury due to falling on an outstretched arm. Many a time, overusing of the tendon also leads to tearing. Such type of injuries are most common among people who perform heavy lifting activities. Aging is another factor that contributes to bicep tendon tear. Over the time, the tendon frays and gradually tears off. Overusing the damaged tendon can worsen the problem.

Bicep tendon tear can limit the usage of your upper arm and elbow joint. It can also reduce the strength in the upper arm. When the tendon tears, there is often a cracking or popping noise accompanied with pain. Thus, the tendon tear can be immediately detected.

Slight bruising can also be noticed in the middle of the upper arm, towards the elbow joint. Depending upon the location of the tear, shoulder joint or elbow joint can feel extremely tender to touch. A bulge or a dent close to shoulder may appear as the ruptured tendon fails to keep the muscle in place.

If the extent of the bicep tendon tear is very less, then no treatment is required. The pain will soon subside on its own, as the torn tendon begins to heal. However, it is important to rest properly and avoid the usage of the injured arm during this period. Simple treatments such as applying ice packs on the injured arm may also ease the muscle pain.

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications can also effectively reduce the pain and swelling due to the torn tendon. Physiotherapy exercises may also prove to be of great use as they restore the strength and flexibility in the injured arm.

Bicep tendon rupture surgery is rarely required, as most symptoms of tendon tear can be relieved with non surgical procedures. It is recommended in case of people who need quick and complete recovery, such as athletes or people who are employed for laborious jobs. Surgery can be a good option for people who do not benefit from the non surgical treatments.

The aim of the surgery is to re-anchor the bicep tendon to the bone. These days, many advance techniques are implemented, which minimize the number of incisions and also allow a quick recovery.

Recovery period is of about 2 weeks after which the person may be able to perform daily activities. A sling may be required for a few days to keep the tendon in place. However, strenuous activities can only be initiated after a span of couple of months.

Bicep tendon tear can put restrictions on the use of arm, thus it may affect the quality of life of the person. Hence, it is imperative to begin the treatment as early as possible for quick recovery as well as to avoid further complications.