Biceps Rupture: Expert Care and Rehabilitation at Palms Physiotherapy & Allied Health

What is a Biceps Rupture?

A biceps tendon rupture typically refers to the tearing of one of the two tendons that connect the biceps muscle to the shoulder (proximal rupture) or to the forearm near the elbow (distal rupture). The injury may be partial or complete, depending on the severity of the tear.

Types of Biceps Rupture:

1. Proximal Biceps Rupture:

   • Occurs at the shoulder where the biceps tendon attaches to the shoulder joint. This type of rupture is more common and often associated with degenerative changes in the tendon or trauma.

2. Distal Biceps Rupture:

   • Occurs at the elbow, where the biceps tendon attaches to the radius bone. This type is more likely to happen in active individuals, especially those who lift heavy weights or participate in sports.

Symptoms of a Biceps Rupture

• Sudden, Sharp Pain: A sudden pop or tearing sensation, followed by intense pain in the shoulder or elbow.

• Swelling and Bruising: Noticeable swelling or bruising in the upper arm or elbow.

• Visible Deformity: In some cases, the biceps muscle may appear to ball up or "popeye," which is caused by the muscle contracting when the tendon tears.

• Weakness: Reduced strength in the arm, particularly when lifting objects or performing overhead movements.

• Limited Range of Motion: Difficulty bending the elbow or rotating the arm.

Causes and Risk Factors

Common Causes

• Trauma: A sudden injury such as lifting a heavy object, an accident, or a fall.

• Repetitive Overhead Movements: Athletes, especially those involved in weightlifting, baseball, or tennis, are at higher risk of proximal ruptures due to repetitive strain on the tendon.

• Degenerative Tendon Changes: Aging or overuse can weaken the tendon, making it more prone to rupture, especially in individuals over 40.

• Direct Impact or Strain: For distal ruptures, lifting heavy objects incorrectly or performing forceful actions can cause the tendon to tear.

Risk Factors

• Age: Older adults are more prone to tendon degeneration, which increases the risk of rupture.

• Previous Injuries: A history of shoulder or elbow injuries increases the likelihood of a tendon rupture.

• Repetitive Stress: Occupations or activities involving repetitive overhead motion or heavy lifting put increased strain on the biceps tendon.

Diagnosis of Biceps Rupture

If you suspect a biceps rupture, it's important to seek medical attention for an accurate diagnosis. The assessment will typically include:

1. Clinical Examination:

   • Physical inspection and palpation of the shoulder or elbow for signs of swelling, deformity, or tenderness.

2. Special Tests:

   • Biceps Tendon Test: A series of movements and resisted motions to assess tendon integrity.

3. Imaging:

   • Ultrasound: Used to visualize the tear and assess the severity of the rupture.

   • MRI: Provides detailed images of the tendon and muscle to evaluate the extent of damage, especially for proximal ruptures.

Treatment Options for Biceps Rupture

Conservative Management (Non-Surgical Treatment)

For partial ruptures or in individuals who are not highly active, conservative treatment may be sufficient:

• Rest: Avoid activities that strain the arm, especially lifting or overhead movements.

• Ice: Applying ice to the affected area can help reduce swelling and inflammation.

• NSAIDs: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (e.g., ibuprofen) may be recommended to alleviate pain and inflammation.

• Physiotherapy:

  • Strengthening Exercises: Gradual strengthening of the biceps and surrounding muscles to prevent further strain.

  • Stretching: Gentle stretching to improve flexibility and range of motion in the shoulder or elbow.

  • Pain Management: Manual therapy and modalities like ultrasound or TENS (Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation) to alleviate pain.

• Activity Modification: Avoiding heavy lifting and high-impact activities until full recovery is achieved.

Surgical Treatment

In cases of complete rupture or for individuals with high functional demands, surgery may be necessary. The options include:

1. Proximal Biceps Rupture Surgery:

   • Biceps Tenodesis: The torn tendon is reattached to a different part of the shoulder.

   • Biceps Tenotomy: The tendon is cut, which may alleviate pain but can result in a "Popeye" deformity.

2. Distal Biceps Rupture Surgery:

   • Distal Biceps Reattachment: The tendon is surgically reattached to the radius bone in the elbow.

Rehabilitation at Palms Physiotherapy & Allied Health

Rehabilitation plays a vital role in returning to normal function after a biceps rupture. At Palms Physiotherapy & Allied Health, we provide personalised rehabilitation programs, including:

• Strength Training: Focusing on strengthening the biceps and surrounding muscles to restore function.

• Range of Motion Exercises: Helping you regain full mobility in the shoulder and elbow joint.

• Scar Tissue Management: Using massage and stretching techniques to prevent stiffness and improve flexibility.

• Sport-Specific Rehabilitation: Once healing is underway, we provide guidance for returning to athletic activities safely.

• Rehabilitation Gym

Preventing Biceps Rupture

• Warm-Up and Stretching: Perform dynamic stretches and warm-up exercises before engaging in physical activity.

• Strengthening: Regularly strengthening the shoulder and arm muscles to protect the tendons from strain.

• Proper Lifting Techniques: Use your legs, not your arms, when lifting heavy objects to avoid unnecessary stress on the biceps.

• Avoid Overhead Stress: Limit repetitive overhead activities, particularly heavy lifting or activities that strain the shoulder.

Why Choose Palms Physiotherapy & Allied Health?

At Palms Physiotherapy & Allied Health, we specialise in treating a variety of musculoskeletal injuries, including biceps ruptures. Our multidisciplinary team of physiotherapists and rehabilitation specialists work closely with you to design a personalised recovery plan that helps you regain function and return to your daily activities or sports.

Contact Us Today

If you've sustained a biceps rupture or are experiencing shoulder or elbow pain, contact Palms Physiotherapy & Allied Health for expert care and rehabilitation. We are dedicated to helping you recover fully and safely. Book an appointment today at our Malaga, Dayton or Noranda locations.