When most people think about shoulder pain, they imagine rotator cuff injuries or arthritis. Yet, the biceps tendon plays a surprisingly important role in shoulder stability and function. Active individuals sometimes struggle with biceps-related shoulder pain without realizing the source. Let’s explore how the biceps can impact shoulder health and recovery.
Understanding the Biceps Tendon
The biceps muscle has two tendons that connect it to the shoulder: the long head and the short head. The long head runs through the shoulder joint and anchors into the labrum, a ring of cartilage that stabilizes the joint. Because of this position, the tendon experiences significant stress during lifting, throwing, or overhead activities.
How the Biceps Contribute to Shoulder Pain
When the long head of the biceps tendon becomes irritated or inflamed, it can cause a condition called biceps tendonitis. This often results from repetitive overhead motions, sports like tennis or swimming, or even heavy lifting at the gym. In some cases, the tendon can partially tear or develop instability, leading to pain that worsens with certain movements.
Patients often describe discomfort in the front of the shoulder, sometimes radiating down the arm. This pain may be more noticeable during activities that involve elbow flexion and forearm rotation, such as carrying groceries or turning a doorknob.
Common Conditions Linked to Biceps-Related Shoulder Pain
Biceps tendon problems rarely occur in isolation. They often appear alongside other shoulder issues, including:
In active communities, where golf, pickleball, and hiking are popular, these combined injuries are increasingly common. Identifying biceps involvement early can lead to better treatment outcomes.
Diagnosis and Treatment Options for Biceps-Related Shoulder Pain
A thorough evaluation can pinpoint whether the biceps tendon is the source of pain.
Diagnosis may involve a physical exam, imaging tests like MRI or ultrasound, and reviewing activity history.
Treatment typically begins with non-surgical options such as targeted physical therapy, anti-inflammatory medications, and activity modifications. In more severe cases, minimally invasive shoulder arthroscopic procedures like biceps tenodesis or tenotomy may relieve pain and restore function. These procedures are often performed arthroscopically for a quicker recovery.
Biceps-related shoulder pain can limit daily activities and athletic performance if left untreated. If you have persistent shoulder discomfort, schedule a consultation with Dr. Shah to explore advanced diagnostic and treatment options tailored to your lifestyle and activity level.
AUTHOR: Anup Shah, MD, MBA, FAAOS is a board-certified, fellowship-trained Sports Medicine Orthopedic surgeon specializing in Knee and Shoulder Surgery in Phoenix, Arizona at Banner Health. Dr. Shah uses a patient-centric and evidence-based approach to help his patients achieve their desired goals.
