Orthopedic Treatments for Torn Tendons of the Biceps and Triceps

Biceps and Triceps Tendons

As such, obviously the biceps and triceps are critical muscle groups in any kind of sport, but in particular, in racket sports, and sports that involve throwing and lifting.

Each of these muscles starts out as tendons near the shoulder, transition to muscles in the middle of the upper arm, then turn back into tendons near the elbow.

They can be injured at any of these locations, but the most common injury is a tear of the tendon where the tendon inserts onto the bone at the elbow.

These injuries are very common and can be very painful and debilitating.

They typically occur after a sudden, forceful movement such as catching something that is falling or quickly lifting a heavy object.

Fortunately, here at All-Pro Orthopedics & Sports Medicine, we are well familiar with how to treat tendon injuries of the biceps and triceps, offering state-of-the-art treatments from non-operative management to surgical repair.

How Are Sports Injuries of the Biceps and Triceps Treated?

A tendon tear involving the biceps or triceps may require surgical repair, however, depending on the extent of the injury, that may not always be the case. Non-surgical interventions, such as focused physical therapy, activity modification, and bracing, can be effective in some patients with small or partial tears of the biceps or triceps at the elbow. However, if the tear is complete, surgical repair is often recommended, particularly for an athlete who may need to return to the game as soon as possible.

A medical history and physical exam will be necessary to make a proper diagnosis and recommended course of action for a sports-related biceps or triceps injury. Because X-rays only show dense tissue such as bones, injuries to soft tissues such as tendons, will require a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan or computed tomography (CT) scan, to determine the full extent of the tear or other injuries.

If a surgical repair is indicated, the outcomes are very promising, with most patients returning to full mobility after the procedure and a program of physical therapy.

Remember, only your doctor using the proper imaging and diagnostic tools can make the determination of the extent of your injury to your biceps or triceps, and therefore recommend the appropriate treatment that is best for your needs and lifestyle.

When Do You Need to Seek Treatment for a Torn Tendon of the Biceps or Triceps?

You need to seek medical attention quickly if any injury to your elbow causes signs or symptoms of injury to biceps or triceps muscle. This is particularly true if you can’t move your elbow, notice a deformity, or have significant bruising.

Signs and symptoms of a tendon tear to the biceps or triceps include:

• Pain and inability to flex or extend the elbow
• Bruising and/or swelling
• Deformity in the arm when the muscle retracts away from the elbow

What Kind of Results Can I Expect From My Treatments?

The treatment of your torn tendon will be tailored to the specifics of your injury, age, needs, and lifestyle. We will always strive to use the most effective treatments for your specific case, that will get you back in the game as soon as possible.

Choosing the right medical specialist after your traumatic sports injury is a crucial step in the rehabilitation process. As specialists in sports medicine, our physicians understand the nature of exercise and athletics-related injuries, better than any other medical professionals.

We understand that as athletes or lay sportsmen, you can’t afford to lose your edge. It is imperative that you sustain the full capabilities that you had before your sports-related injury, and it is always our goal to do so.

Contact All-Pro Orthopedics and Sports Medicine today for the quickest and safest recovery.