A strained upper bicep muscle means that the long head of the biceps has been partially or completely torn. The bicep muscle has two heads -- a short one and a long one -- that originate at the shoulder. Because the long head of the bicep crosses the shoulder joint, it is the one that most often is injured. In minor strain situations, resting is adequate for recovery. Most strains require some type of physical therapy treatment.
Strained Bicep Muscle
The long head of the bicep can become strained after an acute incident where your biceps are forced to produce more force than usual or to complete a movement it's not accustomed to. You may have heard a pop or suffered from a sudden, sharp pain. You may see bruising, and your upper bicep may be tender to the touch. Your bicep can also become strained over time after repetitive movements. Pitchers and volleyball players, who frequently use their shoulder joints, are at risk for an upper bicep strain.
Decrease Swelling and Facilitate Healing
The first step in physical therapy after an upper bicep strain is to decrease swelling and facilitate the healing process. Your physical therapist will likely recommend resting your biceps by avoiding heavy lifting. You can take anti-inflammatory drugs, such as ibuprofen, aspirin and naproxen, which will help decrease swelling and discomfort. Your therapist will apply ice in 20-minute increments to decrease swelling and may use ultrasound.
Restore Bicep Function
When swelling and pain have subsided, which can take three to five days, a physical therapist is likely to incorporate flexibility and strengthening exercises for the bicep muscles. The therapist will ensure that you can flex and extend your elbow through a full range of motion and will stretch the bicep by actively straightening the bicep if necessary. Strengthening activities for the biceps, which include bicep curls and hammer curls, are used to both improve your bicep force production and your neuromuscular pathway. Light weights are used during strength exercises before progressing to heavier resistance.
Considerations
Some strained upper bicep muscles may require surgery. If the long head of the biceps tears completely, you will need surgical repair to reattach the bicep tendon to the bone. Athletes and people who rely on their physical abilities for work may choose surgical treatment in partial tear situations.
