Biceps Tendinitis

If you’re struggling with pain in the front of your shoulder that worsens with lifting, reaching, or overhead motion, you may be experiencing biceps tendinitis. Iowa Ortho’s shoulder specialists provide expert diagnosis and treatment options to help you return to pain-free movement.

What is biceps tendinitis?

Biceps tendinitis is the inflammation or irritation of the long head of the biceps tendon, which attaches the biceps muscle to the shoulder. This condition often develops from repetitive overhead motion, overuse, or shoulder instability. In some cases, biceps tendinitis can occur alongside other shoulder problems like rotator cuff tears or labral injuries.

Causes & risk factors

Biceps tendinitis is common in both athletes and active individuals. Causes and contributing factors include:

• Repetitive overhead motions (throwing, swimming, tennis, weightlifting)
• Shoulder impingement or rotator cuff injuries
• Aging and natural wear of the tendon
• Poor posture or muscle imbalance
• Previous shoulder instability or dislocation

Common symptoms

Symptoms of biceps tendinitis often start gradually and may include:

• Pain in the front of the shoulder, especially with overhead activity
• Tenderness when pressing on the bicipital groove (front of the shoulder)
• Weakness when lifting or rotating the arm
• Pain that radiates down the arm toward the elbow
• A snapping or catching sensation in the shoulder

Diagnosis

At Iowa Ortho, diagnosis begins with a thorough history and physical exam. Your provider may perform specific movement tests to reproduce pain or weakness. Imaging tests, such as X-rays or MRI, may be used to confirm the diagnosis or check for associated injuries.

Treatment options

Non-surgical treatment

Most cases of biceps tendinitis improve with conservative treatment, including:

• Rest & activity modification – avoiding painful overhead movements
• Ice & anti-inflammatory medication to reduce pain and swelling
• Physical therapy to strengthen surrounding muscles, improve posture, and restore flexibility
• Corticosteroid injections for short-term pain relief

Surgical treatment

If pain persists or tendon damage is significant, surgical options may be recommended. These include:

• Biceps tenotomy – releasing the tendon from its attachment
• Biceps tenodesis – reattaching the tendon to a different location on the humerus for stability

Recovery & outlook

With early treatment, many patients recover in a matter of weeks to a few months. Surgical recovery may take longer, but it typically allows patients to return to full activity with reduced pain and improved function.

Why choose Iowa Ortho?

• Experienced shoulder and sports medicine specialists
• Comprehensive care from diagnosis through rehabilitation
• Advanced treatment options, both non-surgical and surgical
• Personalized plans to help you safely return to work, sports, and daily activities

Take the next step

Don’t let shoulder pain keep you from doing what you love. If you suspect biceps tendinitis, Iowa Ortho is here to help.

Call Iowa Ortho at 515-247-8400 or schedule an appointment online with a shoulder specialist.