Shoulder and Biceps Tendon Injuries
Injuries to the Shoulder and Biceps Tendons Causing Pain, Weakness, and Restricted Movement
The shoulder is a complex joint that allows for a wide range of motion. The biceps tendon, which connects the biceps muscle to the bones in the shoulder and elbow, plays a critical role in the movement and stability of your arm. Injuries to the shoulder or biceps tendon can cause significant pain, weakness, and loss of function, making it difficult to perform everyday tasks such as lifting or reaching overhead.
CAUSES OF SHOULDER AND BICEPS TENDON INJURIES
There are several causes of shoulder and biceps tendon injuries, ranging from acute trauma to overuse:
- Trauma: A sudden injury, such as falling on an outstretched arm or experiencing a direct blow to the shoulder, can result in tears to the tendons in the shoulder or biceps.
- Overuse: Repetitive overhead movements, often seen in sports like swimming, tennis, or weightlifting, can lead to inflammation or tears in the shoulder or biceps tendons over time.
- Tendon Degeneration: As we age, tendons naturally weaken and can become more prone to injury. Degenerative changes in the tendons of the shoulder or biceps can lead to chronic pain and limited mobility, even without a significant injury.
TYPES OF SHOULDER AND BICEPS TENDON INJURIES
Injuries to the shoulder and biceps tendons can range from mild inflammation to complete tears.
Common types of injuries include:
- Tendonitis: Inflammation of the shoulder or biceps tendon due to overuse or strain. Tendonitis can cause pain, swelling, and limited range of motion in the affected arm.
- Partial or Complete Tears: A tear in the tendon can occur gradually due to wear and tear or suddenly from an injury. A complete tear may cause a noticeable deformity in the biceps muscle (often referred to as a “Popeye” deformity).
- Shoulder Impingement Syndrome: This occurs when the tendons in the shoulder are pinched or compressed, causing pain and inflammation. Impingement can also affect the biceps tendon, leading to discomfort during shoulder movements.
SYMPTOMS OF SHOULDER AND BICEPS TENDON INJURIES
The symptoms of a shoulder or biceps tendon injury can vary depending on the severity of the injury but often include:
- Pain in the front of the shoulder or upper arm, especially when lifting or rotating the arm
- Weakness in the shoulder or biceps, making it difficult to perform everyday tasks
- A popping or clicking sensation when moving the arm
- Swelling, tenderness, or bruising in the affected area
In the case of a complete tear, a noticeable change in the shape of the biceps muscle
DIAGNOSIS OF SHOULDER AND BICEPS TENDON INJURIES
When you meet with Dr Liddell, he will perform a thorough physical examination to assess your shoulder and biceps function.
He may also recommend imaging tests to confirm the extent of the injury:
- X-Rays: X-rays can help rule out other causes of shoulder pain, such as fractures or arthritis.
- Ultrasound: An ultrasound provides a real-time view of the tendons and can reveal tears or inflammation in the shoulder and biceps.
- MRI: An MRI provides detailed images of the soft tissues in your shoulder, allowing Dr Liddell to assess the severity of the injury and determine the best course of treatment.
SHOULDER AND BICEPS TENDON INJURY TREATMENT OPTIONS
Treatment for shoulder and biceps tendon injuries depends on the severity of the injury and your activity level. Both non-surgical and surgical options are available.
Non-Surgical Treatments
Many shoulder and biceps tendon injuries can be treated without surgery including:
- Rest and Activity Modification: Avoiding activities that exacerbate pain or strain on the tendon can allow for healing.
- Physiotherapy: A personalised physiotherapy program can help restore strength and flexibility to the shoulder and biceps.
- Medications: Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can help manage pain and reduce inflammation.
- Corticosteroid Injections: In some cases, injections may be used to reduce inflammation and provide pain relief.
Surgical Treatments
If the tendon is severely torn or if non-surgical treatments are ineffective, surgery may be necessary to repair the tendon and restore function.
- Arthroscopic Tendon Repair: A minimally invasive procedure where Dr Liddell repairs the torn tendon through small incisions, using specialised instruments. LEARN MORE
- Open Surgery: In cases where a larger tear or more complex repair is required, open surgery may be necessary to fully restore the tendon’s function. LEARN MORE
- Biceps Tenodesis: This procedure involves reattaching the biceps tendon to the humerus (upper arm bone), often used in cases where the tendon is severely damaged. LEARN MORE
Recovery from shoulder and biceps tendon injuries depends on the severity of the injury and the treatment method used. Dr Liddell will provide a tailored rehabilitation plan that includes physiotherapy to restore strength, flexibility, and function.