Biceps Tendinitis Treatment in New Jersey

Bicep Tendinitis Treatment in Wayne & Paramus, NJ

The biceps muscle, located at the front of the upper arm, is attached to the shoulder blade and elbow by thick, fibrous bands of tissue known as tendons. When these tendons become irritated or inflamed, the resulting condition is called biceps tendinitis.  

Biceps tendinitis is most commonly characterized by inflammation of the long head of the biceps tendon, the longer of the two tendon heads that connect the bicep muscle to the shoulder blade, but the condition can also impact the short head of the biceps tendon or the elbow (known as distal biceps tendinitis). If you are experiencing pain, swelling, stiffness, and/or limited range of motion in the front area of the shoulder, biceps tendinitis could be the underlying cause.

Biceps tendinitis rarely occurs in isolation, and at Modern Orthopaedics of New Jersey, our world-class team of orthopedic doctors specializes in diagnosing and treating it along with the range of other conditions that may accompany it. To learn more about our comprehensive approach to shoulder care and receive an individualized treatment plan tailored to your needs and goals, schedule an appointment at Modern Orthopaedics of New Jersey today!

Common Causes Of Biceps Tendinitis

Biceps tendinitis can be caused by a variety of different factors, the most common of which is repetitive overhead movements. Swimmers and athletes in sports such as baseball, volleyball, tennis, golf, and weightlifting are particularly at risk of developing the condition as are individuals who work in jobs such as construction, painting, or manufacturing.

In addition to overuse, biceps tendinitis may also occur as the result of age-related wear and tear, a sudden traumatic injury to the shoulder or upper arm, poor posture, or associated conditions that lead to irritation of the shoulder tendons. It is often diagnosed alongside arthritis of the shoulder, shoulder dislocation, shoulder instability, shoulder impingement syndrome, rotator cuff problems, or other conditions that affect the shoulder and/or upper arm.

Risk factors that may increase the likelihood of developing biceps tendinitis include:

• Repetitive overhead movements
• Participation in sports/athletics
• Age
• Smoking

Symptoms And Diagnosis Of Biceps Tendinitis

Getting shoulder pain properly diagnosed is essential to making a full and complete recovery. If left untreated, biceps tendinitis can worsen and lead to complications such as a bicep tear. At Modern Orthopaedics of New Jersey, we’re committed to performing thorough diagnostics in a state-of-the-art environment in order to ensure that you’ll receive proper treatment and be able to regain full mobility and quality of life.

Recognizing The Signs Of Biceps Tendinitis

Every case of biceps tendinitis presents slightly differently, but symptoms of the condition commonly include one or more of the following:

• Pain/tenderness in the front of the shoulder, or less commonly, near the elbow (may radiate from shoulder to elbow)
• Shoulder or upper arm pain that increases with physical activity, especially lifting the arm over the head
• Shoulder stiffness
• Shoulder weakness
• Limited range of motion in the shoulder
• Swelling, redness, and/or warmth in the bicep muscle
• Difficulty performing routine movements
• A clicking, grinding, or snapping sound/sensation during arm movements

Diagnostic Procedures And Imaging Tests

Your Modern Orthopaedics of New Jersey doctor will take a thorough medical history and ask you about your symptoms before performing an in-depth physical examination to check your strength and range of motion in the affected area. If instability is noted, imaging tests such as X-rays, ultrasound, or MRI may be ordered to better visualize the area and explore other conditions or injuries that may also be contributing to your discomfort.

When To See A Doctor

If pain, stiffness, weakness, or limited range of motion in your shoulder or upper arm is not resolving on its own and affecting your ability to perform daily tasks, it is recommended to seek medical attention. Getting an accurate diagnosis and pursuing treatment options will allow you to regain full strength and mobility and return to your active lifestyle as quickly as possible.

Non-Surgical Treatments For Biceps Tendinitis

In many cases, biceps tendinitis can be effectively resolved with a conservative, non-surgical treatment approach. Your Modern Orthopaedics of New Jersey doctor may recommend some or all of the following:

• Resting and icing the affected area
• Activity modifications
• Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or other pain management
• Physical therapy
• Topical gels or creams
• Steroid injections
• Shockwave Therapy

Surgical Options For Biceps Surgeries

In cases where biceps tendinitis is severe, accompanied by other shoulder issues that require surgery or has been unresponsive to conservative treatment options, a surgical treatment approach may be recommended. Surgeries that may be performed using minimally invasive arthroscopic technology to treat biceps tendinitis include:

• Tenodesis – A procedure that involves repairing a damaged biceps tendon and reaffixing it to the humerus.
• Tenotomy – A procedure that releases a damaged biceps tendon from its attachment.

To learn more about individually tailored surgical solutions for biceps tendinitis, book a consultation with our knowledgeable team at Modern Orthopaedics of New Jersey.

Choosing The Right Shoulder Specialist

At Modern Orthopaedics of New Jersey, our leading team of board-certified doctors specializes in individualized treatment options for biceps tendinitis and other shoulder issues. Our patient-centered approach is rooted in the belief that doctor-patient relationships are at the core of successful treatment and we are dedicated to providing the highest level of care in an ultramodern environment. We look forward to earning your trust and supporting you in regaining your strength, shoulder movement, and quality of life. Book an initial consultation today and start your recovery journey with our compassionate team of award-winning specialists!

Preventing Biceps Tendinitis And Shoulder Injuries

It may not always be possible to prevent biceps tendinitis, but the following strategies can help reduce your likelihood of developing the condition:

• Warm up properly before physical activity
• Take time to stretch and cool down after exertion
• Strengthen your biceps muscle and surrounding muscles with targeted training
• Build up slowly to activities that put pressure on the arms and shoulders
• Limit repetitive overhead movements
• Stop if you feel pain in your shoulder/upper arm

 Our Awarded
Specialists