Understanding Biceps Tendon Repair
If you’ve experienced a sudden, sharp pain in your shoulder or elbow, sometimes accompanied by a “pop” sensation, and notice a bulge in your arm, you might have torn your biceps tendon. If this has happened, your doctor might recommend a Biceps Tendon Repair to reattach the tendon and restore strength and function to your arm.
What’s Going On with Your Biceps Tendon?
Your biceps muscle is the one on the front of your upper arm, known for creating that “flexed” look. It actually has two tendons that attach it to your shoulder (the “long head” and “short head”) and one tendon that attaches it to your forearm bone (the “distal” biceps tendon) near the elbow.
These tendons are strong, rope-like tissues that connect the biceps muscle to your bones, allowing you to:
- Bend your elbow
- Rotate your forearm (like turning a doorknob or using a screwdriver)
- Help lift your arm at the shoulder
A biceps tendon tear occurs when one of these tendons pulls away from its attachment point. This can happen due to:
- Sudden, forceful events: Such as lifting a heavy object, falling onto an outstretched arm, or trying to stop a heavy object from falling.
- Repetitive overhead activities: Which can cause wear and tear over time.
- Aging: Tendons naturally weaken with age.
When a biceps tendon tears, especially a complete tear, the muscle can no longer properly connect to the bone, leading to weakness, pain, and sometimes a visible bulge or “Popeye” deformity in the arm where the muscle retracts.
How Does Biceps Tendon Repair Help?
Biceps tendon repair surgery aims to reattach the torn tendon back to its proper bone attachment point. The goal is to restore the normal anatomy, strength, and function of your biceps muscle and arm.
During the surgery, the surgeon will:
- Locate the Torn Tendon: An incision (cut) is made either near the shoulder (for shoulder biceps tears) or near the elbow (for distal biceps tears) to find the detached end of the tendon.
- Prepare the Bone: The area on the bone where the tendon originally attached is cleaned and prepared to allow for new healing.
- Reattach the Tendon: The torn tendon is then firmly reattached to the bone using strong stitches, screws, buttons, or other fixation devices. This holds the tendon securely in place while it heals back to the bone.
Life After Biceps Tendon Repair
After your biceps tendon repair, physical therapy is essential for a successful recovery and to regain the full strength and motion of your arm. Your physical therapist will guide you through a carefully planned rehabilitation program, which typically includes:
- Protecting the Repair: Initially, your arm will likely be in a sling or brace to protect the healing tendon and prevent too much movement.
- Gradual Movement Restoration: As the tendon heals, you’ll begin gentle, controlled exercises to slowly regain the range of motion in your elbow and/or shoulder.
- Progressive Strengthening: Your therapist will introduce strengthening exercises for your biceps, forearm, and shoulder muscles. This is crucial for rebuilding the power needed for lifting and carrying.
- Functional Training: As you progress, you’ll work on exercises that mimic your daily activities, work tasks, or sports-specific movements to ensure a safe return.
Recovery from biceps tendon repair requires patience and commitment to your physical therapy program. The timeline for full recovery can vary, often taking several months, but following your therapist’s instructions closely is key to achieving the best possible outcome and safely returning to your desired activities.