Biceps tendonitis

Biceps tendonitis – inflammation or degeneration of the biceps tendon at the upper part of the arm bone (humerus) can result from overuse injury, or trauma. The biceps tendon attaches to the upper socket of the ball and socket (glenohumeral joint) to stabilize the shoulder joint.

Associated problems can include impingement syndrome, rotator cuff tears, shoulder instability. Signs/symptoms include pain, difficulty lifting the arm in front of the body, and weakness in lifting the arm in front of the body.

Treatment

Treatment initially is nonsurgical and includes steroid injections, physical therapy, anti-inflammatory medicines, and activity modifications.

Surgery

Surgical treatment is reserved for failure of conservative treatment and includes arthroscopic or open procedures to remove damaged tendon (debridement) release the tendon (tenotomy), or stabilize the tendon (tenodesis).