The distal biceps tendon is a tough band of connective tissue that attaches the lower portion of the bicep muscle in the upper arm to the bones in the elbow. An injury, such as a direct fall on the elbow, can cause the distal biceps tendon to tear or rupture; however, this type of injury is rare, affecting only about 1 to 2 in every 100,000 people each year, according to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. People who develop distal biceps tendon tear symptoms should consult a doctor as soon as possible for further evaluation and care.
Audible Popping or Snapping Sound
At the time of injury, people can notice an audible popping or snapping sound when the tendon tears away from the muscle or bone at the elbow. Typically, people also develop sudden, intense pain at the site of injury.
Pain
Initially, sensations of pain along the front of the elbow can be severe. Shortly after injury, elbow pain can progressively subside because there is no longer any tension on the torn tendon, Dr. David McAllister with the University of California Los Angeles Department of Orthopaedic Surgery explains.
Swelling or Bruising
The skin surrounding the front of the elbow can appear significantly swollen or enlarged following a distal biceps tendon tear, AAOS reports. Additionally, small blood vessels beneath the skin can be damaged during a tendon rupture injury, which can cause the skin to appear discolored or bruised. Bruising can appear around the elbow or may extend into the forearm in certain people. The affected skin region is typically tender or painful to the touch.
Weakness
When the distal biceps tendon ruptures, the biceps muscle is no longer held taut and can't contract normally during physical activity. Consequently, people with this type of injury experience weakness when attempting to rotate or twist the forearm or bend the elbow, the Cleveland Clinic explains. Sensations of weakness can significantly interfere with a person's ability to perform normal tasks, such as picking up or reaching for objects.
Bulge or Gap
A distal biceps tendon tear releases the base of the biceps muscle away from the elbow. When this occurs, the muscle can retract and form a large mass in the upper arm. Additionally, the absence of the distal biceps tendon following a rupture injury can cause a small gap to appear beneath the skin at the front of the elbow, AAOS explains.
