Biceps tendinopathy

Irritation of the long head of the biceps tendon at the front of the shoulder.

Overview

Biceps tendinopathy is overload-related irritation of the long head of the biceps tendon as it runs through the front of the shoulder. It often coexists with rotator cuff problems and responds to graded loading.

Symptoms

  • Pain at the front of the shoulder
  • Discomfort with lifting and overhead activity
  • Tenderness along the biceps tendon
  • Pain with resisted elbow bending

Causes

  • Repetitive overhead or lifting activity
  • Associated rotator cuff dysfunction
  • Sudden increases in load

Treatment

  • Load management and graded strengthening
  • Rotator cuff and scapular exercise
  • Activity modification
  • Injection or surgical opinion in stubborn cases