Distal Bicep Tendon Tears

A distal biceps tendon tear refers to the rupture or partial tear of the tendon connecting the biceps muscle to the forearm bone (radius) near the elbow joint. The following are common signs and symptoms associated with a distal biceps tendon tear:

1. Sudden, sharp pain: You may experience a sudden and intense pain in the front of your elbow or forearm at the time of injury. This pain can be severe and may worsen with movement or certain activities.

2. Audible pop or snap: Some individuals report hearing an audible pop or snap at the time of injury, which can be a characteristic sound of the tendon tearing.

3. Weakness: A torn distal biceps tendon can result in a noticeable decrease in strength, particularly when trying to flex the elbow or rotate the forearm. Activities that require strong grip or lifting may become challenging.

4. Swelling and bruising: Swelling around the front of the elbow or forearm may occur within a few hours or days after the injury. Additionally, bruising or discoloration may develop in the affected area.

5. Visible deformity: In some cases, a distal biceps tendon tear can cause a visible deformity, often described as a “Popeye” sign. This occurs when the biceps muscle retracts toward the upper arm, creating a bulge that is more prominent than the unaffected side.

6. Tenderness: The area around the distal biceps tendon may be tender to the touch. You may experience localized pain and discomfort when pressure is applied.

It is important to note that these symptoms may vary in severity depending on the extent of the tear, ranging from a partial tear to a complete rupture. If you suspect a distal biceps tendon tear, it is advisable to seek medical evaluation for proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

The treatment for a distal biceps tendon tear depends on various factors, including the severity of the tear, the individual’s overall health, and their functional goals. Here are the commonly recommended treatment options:

1. Non-surgical treatment: Non-surgical management is sometimes considered for individuals with partial tears or those who have minimal functional demands. It typically involves rest, activity modification, and conservative measures such as ice application, pain medications, and hysical therapy. However, non-surgical treatment may result in some loss of strength and endurance compared to surgical repair.

2. Surgical repair: Surgical intervention is often recommended, especially for active individuals, athletes, or those with complete tears. Surgery aims to reattach the torn tendon to the bone to restore strength and function. The specific surgical technique may vary, but it generally involves making an incision near the elbow, locating the torn tendon ends, and reattaching them to the bone using sutures, anchors, or other fixation methods. Surgery is usually performed within a few weeks of the injury to achieve optimal outcomes.

Following surgery, a period of immobilization, such as using a splint or brace, may be necessary to protect the repair. Physical therapy and rehabilitation are crucial components of the recovery process to regain strength, flexibility, and range of motion in the affected arm.

It’s important to consult with a healthcare professional, preferably a sports medicine orthopedic surgeon, who can evaluate your specific condition and recommend the most appropriate treatment approach. At Total Orthopedics and Sports Medicine we have sports medicine surgeons who specialize and have even published on advanced techniques in repairing distal biceps tendons.