Biceps Tendon Ruptures

Biceps tendons can rupture at the shoulder or at the elbow, although the vast majority of incidents occur at the shoulder. Ruptures can happen at the lower end as a result of a sudden traumatic event—usually during a strenuous act like lifting heavy weights or football injuries—or, at the upper end, as a culmination of more chronic conditions like Shoulder Impingement. In the first instance, the condition is manifested by sharp pain at the elbow and an audible pop and weakness; in the latter, by pain and irritation that occurs during elevation of the arm and shoulder. The proximal biceps tendon rupture leaves the patient with a Popeye deformity, which in most cases is painless.  The distal biceps tendon rupture causes weakness in elbow flexion, and especially supination.

Conservative treatment of these conditions includes activity modification and rest, immobilization, icing, anti-inflammatory medications and physical therapy. Complete tears may demand surgical intervention in order to assure maximum strength retention and pain relief.