Table of Contents
Introduction; Various Conditions of the Biceps Muscle;
Symptoms of a Torn Biceps Muscle; Treatment of a Torn Biceps Muscle
An introduction to the biceps muscle and its function. The various conditions that can affect the biceps muscle, such as a tear, are described, along with the symptoms and treatment.
Biceps Functions
The biceps muscle is located in the upper arm and is responsible for bending the arm at the elbow and for turning the palm of the hand inward. The biceps is a two-headed muscle, meaning that it has two sections (heads) that work together to produce the desired motion. The biceps is innervated by the Musculocutaneous nerve, which originates in the brachial plexus, a bundle of nerves that arises from the spinal cord.
Biceps Strain
A biceps strain is a tear or rip in the biceps muscle. The biceps muscle is located in the front of the upper arm and helps to lift the arm. A biceps strain is usually caused by a sudden movement or force that overstretches the muscle. Symptoms of a biceps strain include pain, swelling, and bruising in the arm. The arm may feel weak and difficult to move. Treatment for a biceps strain includes rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE). Physical therapy may also be recommended to help strengthen the muscle and improve range of motion.
Proximal Biceps Tendon Rupture
The proximal biceps tendon attaches the biceps muscle to the shoulder blade. It can rupture (tear) from its attachment to the shoulder blade. This is a serious injury that usually requires surgery.
Biceps Contracture
A biceps contracture is a condition in which the biceps muscle becomes shortened and tight. This can cause the arm to bend forward at the elbow and the hand to curl inwards. A biceps contracture can be caused by a number of things, including birth defects, injuries, and diseases such as cerebral palsy. Treatment for a biceps contracture may include physical therapy, braces, or surgery.
Distal Biceps Tendon Rupture
A distal biceps tendon rupture is a rupture of the distal biceps tendon, which is the tendon that attaches the biceps muscle to the forearm. The most common symptom of a distal biceps tendon rupture is a sudden, severe pain in the forearm. Additional symptoms may include a popping noise, bruising, and swelling.
A distal biceps tendon rupture can be treated with surgery or with a cast. Surgery involves repairing the tendon with stitches or a patch. A cast is worn for about six weeks. Physical therapy is usually recommended after the cast is removed.
Proximal Biceps Tendonitis
Proximal biceps tendonitis is a condition that affects the proximal biceps tendon, which is the tendon that attaches the biceps muscle to the shoulder blade. The proximal biceps tendon is responsible for bending the elbow and rotating the arm inward.
Proximal biceps tendonitis is caused by overuse of the biceps muscle, and is most common in athletes who participate in sports that require repetitive overhead motions, such as throwing or swimming. The condition is also seen in people who perform manual labor tasks that require excessive use of the biceps muscle, such as lifting heavy objects.
Symptoms of proximal biceps tendonitis include pain and swelling in the shoulder region, pain and tenderness in the biceps muscle, and difficulty bending the elbow. In severe cases, the tendon may rupture.
Treatment for proximal biceps tendonitis includes rest, ice, and NSAIDs to reduce pain and inflammation. Physical therapy may also be recommended to help strengthen the muscles around the shoulder and promote healing of the tendon. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to repair the damaged tendon.
Clinical Examinations
Clinical examinations are examinations that are carried out by a doctor or other healthcare professional. Clinical examinations can involve a physical examination of the body, or a mental examination of the mind.
Treatment for Biceps Pain
If you are experiencing pain in your biceps, you should seek medical attention. Treatment will depend on the cause of the pain.
