Shoulder bones are connected to the biceps muscle by the upper biceps tendon. Shoulder pain in the front side and a weak feeling in that region could be a symptom of Long head of Biceps Tendonitis.
Ball in the upper arm bone (humerus) and the socket (glenoid) in Scapula make the shoulder joint. This joint is protected and powered for various actions by muscles and tendons. The long head tendon connects the biceps to the socket in the shoulder blade. Inflammation occurring in long head biceps tendon results in Biceps tendonitis. It does not occur solo but always accompanies with other ailments. They are
- Damaged rotary cuff tendon
- Shoulder joint Arthritis
- Damage in glenoid
- Impingement in shoulder joint.
- Other diseases related to shoulder inflammation.
Causes:
Aging is one of the major causes as aging weakens the tendon. Over activity that imparts more work to the tendon is also a cause. This might include sports activities like playing baseball, tennis and even swimming. Some day-to-day activities also could cause damage to the tendon.
Symptoms:
- Excess pain or a feeling of tenderness during activity.
- Displacement of the upper arm bone to a slightly lower level
- Feeling of snaps in the shoulder joint.
Non-Surgical Treatment
Providing sufficient rest to the portion avoiding any serious activity is the primary treatment suggested. Applying ice over the affected area also would give a temporary relief. Anti-inflammatory medications not containing steroids also is an option which will be decided by the doctor. Injecting steroids like cortisone as decided by the doctor might also be opted for. Physical therapy also is found to give relief and cure.
Surgical Treatment:
- Repairing: The biceps tendon could be made straight and repaired by surgery.
- Tenodesis: The damaged portion of the tendon is removed and the balance portion is attached to the upper arm bone
- Tenotomy: If both the options are not viable due to severe damage then this option is used where the tendon itself is removed fully. This might result in some implications like popeye bulge.
