Bicep tendinitis occurs when one of the tendons that attaches the bicep muscle to a bone in the arm becomes irritated or inflamed. There are two tendons at the the top of the bicep that connects the muscle to the shoulder bones. These tendons help the arm to move. As the bicep muscle contracts it pulls on the tendon so the arm can either bend or rotate. Certain conditions can cause bicep tendinitis and there are preventative measure that can be taken to avoid this injury.
Overuse
Lifting the arm up overhead repeatedly can eventually lead to wear and tear and bicep tendinitis states the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. This is more likely to happen with age as the tendons tend to naturally lose their elasticity. Sports such as swimming, basketball, tennis and baseball can all raise the risk. Any occupation or household chore that requires constantly reaching overhead can also contribute to this condition.
A direct blow to the arm can cause the tendon to become inflamed as well. To help manage this condition it is best to rest the area as soon as symptoms appear and before the condition becomes chronic. Taking days of rest in-between these types of activities can also help.
Medical Conditions
The National Institutes of Health claims that bicipital tendinitis sometimes occurs as a complication of another medical condition that weakens the muscles and joints. This can include osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis in the shoulder and rotator cuff injuries.
Properly managing any other underlying condition can help to lessen the risk and severity of this injury. In most cases medications, injections and physical therapy can help to control the symptoms of other medical conditions and bicep tendinitis.
Weak and Tight Muscles
If the muscles in the arm or shoulder are weak or tight then the tendon may be subjected to excess force which can cause it to become inflamed. According to the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases, keeping the muscles of the arm and shoulder strong and flexible can help to prevent tendinitis. This means participating in a strength training program two-to-three days per week and daily stretching. Stronger muscles are better able to stabilize the joint during movement. More flexible muscles are less prone to pull on the tendon and cause injury. Performing a proper warm up and cool down along with participating in a variety of activities can all lower the risk of developing bicep tendinitis.
