Experiencing elbow pain after a biceps workout frequently occurs due to simple overwork, hyperextension, or ligament strain to the elbow and biceps muscles. Biceps muscles directly relate to the elbow and promote flexing of the joint. Rigorous, repetitive movements such as curls distress elbow tendons, occasionally generating inflammation and tearing. Other reasons for elbow pain following a series of biceps exercises include tendonitis, bursitis or a ruptured tendon.
Tendonitis
Tendons, which connect muscle to bone, are primarily composed of collagen matrix, a structural protein possessing extreme flexibility. Tendonitis occurs when the matrix is damaged due to repetitive overwork, resulting in weakened tissues and pain. In addition, individuals suffering from tendonitis may have difficulty extending and flexing the elbow. The area may be sore to the touch as well. Swelling and redness often designate the affected area, with a slight burning sensation following these symptoms.
Treatment for Tendonitis
Allowing an elbow affected by tendonitis to rest is the best remedy for this issue. Individuals with tendonitis, in addition to taking pain-relievers like ibuprofen to reduce swelling and pain, apply ice when necessary to the affected area. Generally, tendonitis heals within two to three weeks, depending on the severity of the condition and how well the individual takes care of the elbow. Severe cases of tendonitis may require up to six weeks of recuperation due to scar tissue needing to accumulate to repair the injured tendon. If tendonitis immediately recurs after you resume biceps exercises, it is usually because you did not wait long enough for the tendon to heal.
Ligament Damage in the Elbow
Injuring the ulnar collateral ligament during biceps exercises will generate pain inside of the elbow. This ligament attaches the forearm's ulnar bone to the bottom end of the humerus, components involved in flexing the elbow. Sometimes referred to as "elbow ligament laxity," this condition presents a ligament that is too weak to perform elbow stabilization. Because ligament injuries are frequently misdiagnosed as muscle-, nerve- or joint-related problems, consulting a physician is the only way to know whether you are suffering from ligament damage.
Treatment for Ligament Strain or Tearing
Severe pain is usually reduced with cortisone shots as part of a treatment program prescribed by a physician. Protecting the injured ligament from further damage may consist of wearing a sling to inhibit movement, applying ice bags and elevating the elbow. When repair begins, blood clotting appears over and around the strained ligament's tissues. Fibroblast cells initiate collagen tissue production in the repair phase as well. Electrotherapy is sometimes used due to its ability to facilitate collagen production.
Avoiding Elbow Problems from Biceps Exercises
Hyperextension of elbow joints frequently occurs during bicep exercises, especially curls. This is because the dumbbell or barbell's weight impels the joint to move beyond its normal motion range while your arm is extended. Using an EZ curl bar may prevent future issues with the elbow by maintaining proper elbow orientation. Overexertion should be avoided as well.
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