Bicipital tendinitis, also referred to as biceps tendinitis, is an inflammatory condition that affects the tendons that attach the biceps muscles to the bones within the arm. People can develop bicipital tendinitis symptoms due to biceps tendon degradation, overuse or injury. If bicipital tendinitis symptoms arise, affected patients should see a medical professional.
Pain
Inflammation of the biceps tendon most commonly causes pain symptoms in affected people. Sensations of pain generally localize to the front of the shoulder and may be most severe during the night, explains UpToDate. Shoulder pain due to bicipital tendinitis can arise gradually over time and may also radiate down the bone within the upper arm. People who develop this condition can have difficulty lifting certain objects or reaching for things that are above the head. Sudden, severe pain within the front of the shoulder can be a sign of bicipital tendon rupture. People who experience chronic shoulder pain should consult a physician for further evaluation to avoid permanent tendon injury.
Redness or Swelling
When the biceps tendon is irritated, inflammation can extend into the surrounding tissues. Affected people can notice that the skin covering the shoulder appears unusually red or swollen, explain health professionals with the Canadian Centre for Occupational Health. Shoulder swelling can be uncomfortable and may restrict a person's ability to move the affected arm normally.
Snapping Sensation
The bicipital tendon can become trapped in between the bones of the shoulder, leading to significant tendon irritation. When this occurs, people with bicipital tendinitis can notice an unusual snapping sensation or sound within the shoulder, say medical professionals with the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. This snapping sensation may be most apparent when a person rotates or extends the affected shoulder region. Typically, the snapping sensation does not cause pain in affected people.
