Biceps Tendinitis
What is the long head of the biceps tendon?
The biceps muscle has two tendons at the shoulder: the short head and the long head. The long head of the biceps tendon runs through the front of the shoulder and attaches deep inside the joint near the top of the labrum. It plays a role in shoulder stability and motion.
Long head of biceps tendonitis is inflammation of the tendon where it passes through the front of the shoulder joint. It often develops from overuse, irritation, or degeneration over time and causes pain in the front of the shoulder.
Tendonitis is commonly caused by repetitive overhead motion (e.g., throwing, swimming, or lifting). It may also occur with other shoulder problems like rotator cuff tears, impingement, or labral injuries, which increase stress on the tendon.
Symptoms include aching or sharp pain in the front of the shoulder, tenderness along the biceps groove, and discomfort with lifting or rotating the arm. Some patients also experience weakness or a clicking sensation with movement.
Diagnosis is based on a physical exam to test shoulder and biceps function. Tenderness over the tendon is often found. Imaging, such as ultrasound or MRI, can help identify inflammation, tears, or associated shoulder conditions.
Non-surgical treatment includes rest, anti-inflammatory medications, physical therapy, and sometimes corticosteroid injections. If symptoms persist or the tendon is severely damaged or torn, surgical options may be considered — most commonly a biceps tenodesis.
Biceps tenodesis is a surgical procedure where the long head of the biceps tendon is detached from its attachment in the shoulder and reattached to the upper arm bone (humerus). This removes the inflamed portion from the joint while preserving biceps strength and function.
Recovery typically takes 3 to 4 months. A sling is worn for a few weeks, followed by physical therapy to restore motion and gradually rebuild strength. Most patients return to normal daily activities within a few weeks, and to sports or heavy lifting by 3 to 4 months.
At a Glance
Sachin Allahabadi, MD
- Board-Certified & Fellowship-Trained Sports Medicine Surgeon
- Expertise in Minimally Invasive Knee & Shoulder Surgeries
- Assistant Professor of Clinical Orthopaedic Surgery, Houston Methodist Hospital & Weill Cornell Medical College
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