What it is
The long head of the biceps runs through the shoulder joint and is a common source of front-of-shoulder pain. It can become inflamed, unstable or rupture completely, sometimes producing a visible bulge in the upper arm.
How it usually presents
- Pain at the front of the shoulder, worse lifting or reaching forwards
- A sudden pop followed by relief of pain and a Popeye-shaped bulge
- Aching after overhead activity
How it is assessed
Examination with specific biceps tests, supported by ultrasound or MRI.
Treatment options
- Activity modification and physiotherapy
- Guided injection
- Biceps tenotomy or tenodesis where symptoms persist
Non-surgical treatment is considered first wherever it is reasonable. Which option suits you depends on your symptoms, your goals and what you want from treatment, which is exactly what we discuss in clinic.
Back to all conditions