A ruptured biceps tendon can cause pain and weakness in the affected arm. Here's an overview of its causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention.
A ruptured biceps tendon is usually caused by sudden trauma or repetitive stress.
Direct impact on the arm, such as a fall onto an outstretched hand or a sudden forceful contraction of the biceps.
Overuse: Overuse of the biceps tendon can lead to chronic wear and tear, especially in athletes and manual laborers.
Degenerative changes in the tendon caused by aging or underlying conditions such as tendonitis or tendonosis can weaken the tendon and make it more likely to rupture.
There are several symptoms of a ruptured biceps tendon, including:
A sudden, sharp pain usually described as stabbing or sharp at the site of the injury.
Swelling and bruising: Swelling and bruising around the affected area, particularly the upper arm or elbow.
Forearm weakness or inability to flex the elbow or supinate (turn palm up).
At the time of injury, some individuals may feel or hear a popping or snapping sensation.
A bulge or deformity may be visible in the upper arm or elbow region if the biceps muscle has retracted.
Clinical evaluation and imaging studies are typically needed to diagnose biceps tendon ruptures. Key diagnostic steps include:
A healthcare professional evaluates symptoms, range of motion, strength, and palpates the affected area.
It is possible to visualize the extent of tendon injury and assess associated damage to surrounding structures using imaging tests such as ultrasound or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).
There are some clinical tests that can be performed to evaluate the integrity and function of the biceps tendon, such as Speed's test or the biceps squeeze test.
Treatment for biceps tendon rupture depends on the severity of the injury, patient preferences, and functional goals. Treatment options may include:
For mild or partial tears, RICE therapy, along with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to reduce pain and inflammation, may be sufficient.
Rehabilitation exercises aimed at strengthening surrounding muscles and improving range of motion may help restore arm function and stability.
To restore strength and function to the arm, surgery may be recommended for complete tears or significant functional impairments of the ruptured tendon. There are two types of surgery: tenodesis (reattachment of the tendon to the bone) and tenotomy (release of the tendon).
Certain measures may reduce the risk of biceps tendon rupture, even if it is not possible to prevent all injuries:
It is important to use proper lifting and exercise techniques to prevent overuse injuries, including gradual progression of weight and avoiding excessive overhead lifting.
Before engaging in physical activity, warm-up exercises and stretching can help reduce the risk of injury by preparing muscles and tendons for increased stress.
Regular strength training can improve muscle strength and stability, reducing the risk of tendon injuries in the shoulder and upper arm.
Overuse injuries can be prevented by taking regular breaks, alternating tasks, and avoiding repetitive movements.
A ruptured biceps tendon can be caused by trauma, overuse, or age-related changes in the tendon. In order to optimize outcomes and restore function to the affected arm, prompt diagnosis and appropriate treatment, including conservative management or surgical repair, are essential. The risk of biceps tendon rupture can be reduced by following proper lifting techniques, engaging in strength training exercises, and avoiding overuse.
