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Biceps tendonitis is inflammation in the tendon that connects your biceps to your shoulder.
If you feel a sharp pinch when reaching overhead or a dull ache after a long day, it could be due to biceps tendonitis.
Even simple tasks, like brushing your hair or lifting a bag, can become painful.
At Resilience Orthopedics in San Jose, we understand how shoulder pain can hold you back. That’s why we offer personalized and non-surgical care to help you feel and move better.
In this article, we’ll walk you through what biceps tendonitis feels like, how it develops, and how you can start healing.
Key Takeaways
- Biceps tendonitis causes pain in the front of the shoulder, often worsened by lifting, reaching, or repetitive motions.
- Early symptoms may improve with rest, but a shoulder specialist should evaluate persistent pain beyond 1–2 weeks.
- Rest, physical therapy, ice, and activity adjustments are the first line of management for most cases.
- Early treatment may prevent complications like tendon degeneration or tears.
- Long-term recovery includes exercises, good posture,
Understanding Biceps Tendonitis
The biceps tendon connects your biceps muscle to the top of your shoulder. It helps stabilize the joint and allows smooth arm movement.
When this tendon becomes irritated from overuse or repetitive motion, it may become inflamed. This leads to pain, stiffness, and limited motion, especially when reaching or lifting.
If left untreated, the tendon may weaken or, in rare cases, tear.
What Causes It – And Who’s at Risk?
Bicep tendonitis occurs due to strain on your tendons, which may cause inflammation.
Other causes may include:
- Injury
- Poor posture, especially during long hours of desk work
- Shoulder impingement
- Lifting something heavy improperly or too frequently
- Wear and tear of the tendon
- Improper playing technique
- Overuse or repetitive motion
Some of the risk factors for bicep tendonitis include:
- Being over 30 years, as tendons lose strength and elasticity with age
- Activities that require repetitive shoulder use, like tennis, swimming, or construction work
Smoking, as nicotine tends to affect tendon strength.
Key Symptoms to Watch For
- Severe pain during shoulder movement, especially during lifting, typing, or playing sports
- Reduced shoulder mobility
- Muscle weakness
- Clicking sound when you move your shoulder
- Swelling along with a change in skin color
Distinguishing Biceps Tendonitis from Other Shoulder Conditions
Shoulder pain can be tricky to diagnose, as many conditions cause similar symptoms like pain, swelling, or stiffness.
For example, biceps tendonitis shares symptoms with conditions such as:
With so much overlap, it’s easy to confuse one condition for another. Here’s a quick comparison of common shoulder conditions and their differences:
| Condition | What’s Affected | Where It Hurts | Pain Triggers | Movement Limitation | Common Signs |
| Biceps Tendonitis | Inflammation of the biceps tendon | Front of the shoulder | -Lifting-Reaching-Bending the elbow | Pain with certain arm movements | -Tenderness-Clicking-Pain that worsens with movement |
| Bursitis | Inflammation of the bursa (joint cushion) | General pain around the shoulder joint | -Repetitive motion -Pressure on the joint | Stiffness from pain | -Swelling-Tenderness-Pain with pressure |
| Frozen Shoulder | Thickening/tightening of the joint capsule | Deep ache across the shoulder | Almost all movement | Severe stiffness in every direction | -Trouble sleeping-Loss of range of motion |
| Shoulder Impingement | Compression of tendons or bursa | Top or outer shoulder | -Reaching overhead/ across your body (like for a seatbelt) | -Weakness-Pain during certain movements | -Painful arc when lifting arm-Weakness-Clicking |
Why Does Diagnosis by a Shoulder Specialist Matter?
Overlapping Symptoms
Conditions such as rotator cuff tears and arthritis have signs similar to biceps tendonitis.
A specialist uses advanced imaging like MRI or ultrasound, along with specific physical tests, to find the root cause of your pain.
Tailored Treatments
Treatment plans vary based on your condition. A shoulder specialist will make sure you receive the right care. This may include physical therapy, medications, or surgery (if necessary).
Preventing Chronic Issues
Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent tendon degeneration or a “frozen” joint. This helps restore mobility and avoid chronic complications.
Ready to Recover?
Take the first step in getting back to your normal self, and book an appointment with Dr. Mehta today.
We’re ready when you are!
When Should You See a Doctor for Biceps Tendonitis?
If you have biceps tendonitis, consider seeing a doctor if you experience:
- Pain lasting more than 1–2 weeks that doesn’t improve with rest or over-the-counter pain relievers
- Pain that disrupts sleep or daily activities
- Sudden weakness, swelling, or noticeable changes like a bulge in your shoulder or upper arm
- Difficulty with tasks like lifting or carrying
- A history of shoulder injuries or tendonitis
- Work-related issues, especially affecting physical tasks or desk work
If you’re an athlete, early care is important to prevent re-injury and properly heal your condition.
Can Biceps Tendonitis Heal on Its Own?
Mild cases may improve with rest, ice, and changes in your routine (especially playing sports).
But if your symptoms persist even after 1-2 weeks, it’s time to see an orthopedic doctor to avoid complications.
What Happens If Biceps Tendonitis is Left Untreated?
Without treatment, biceps tendonitis can gradually worsen.
In the early stages, inflammation may limit your movement. Over time, the tendon may become thickened or even tear, leading to pain, weakness, and a visible bulge in the arm.
It may also put extra strain on nearby structures like the rotator cuff or labrum, causing more discomfort and mobility issues. In some cases, surgery may be needed.
Getting early care from Dr. Pamela Mehta can help you avoid these complications and heal faster.
Expert Shoulder Care in San Jose
Dr. Mehta is a board-certified orthopedic surgeon and athlete with extensive experience treating complex shoulder conditions.
At Resilience Orthopedics, she offers personalized care. She also focuses on efficient diagnosis and treatment. In addition, you won’t have to wait long as same-week appointments are often available.
How is Biceps Tendonitis Diagnosed?
Diagnosis begins with reviewing your symptoms and medical history.
This is followed by a physical exam to check shoulder strength, flexibility, and tenderness near the biceps tendon.
To better understand the cause of your pain, your doctor may use tests, like Speed’s or Yergason’s, to check for inflammation or tendon damage.
In some cases, imaging may be necessary for a more detailed look, including:
- X-rays: To detect bone issues in the shoulder
- Ultrasound: To visualize tendon movement and spot inflammation or tears
MRI: Provides a detailed view of soft tissues like the biceps tendon
Non-Surgical Treatment Options For Biceps Tendonitis
Dr. Mehta focuses on gentle, non-surgical treatments as the first line of care for biceps tendonitis.
Your treatment begins with physical therapy and exercises. This helps to restore strength and mobility while easing discomfort.
Managing Pain and Activity with Relative Rest
Relative rest means avoiding overhead reaching or lifting while staying active in safe ways. It helps preserve your strength and speeds up healing.
Pain from tendonitis often flares up hours after an activity, so it’s important to monitor how you feel both during exercise and the next day.
If your pain increases within 24 hours, it’s a sign you may need to scale back to prevent further irritation.
Ice
Apply a cold pack to the front of your shoulder for 15–20 minutes a few times a day.
This may reduce inflammation and pain. Always wrap ice in a towel to protect your skin from frostbite.
Activity Adjustment
Avoid overhead motions or tasks that irritate the tendon. These may include:
- Reaching up in the closet
- Lifting heavy items
- Sleeping with your arm overhead.
You can also make small changes, like gripping the steering wheel lower while driving. Additionally, adjust your keyboard height at work to reduce shoulder strain.
Physical Therapy
Physical therapy for biceps tendonitis focuses on three goals:
- Improving flexibility
Carefully guided shoulder and bicep stretches may reduce stiffness and increase the range of motion.
- Building strength
Targeted exercises may strengthen the biceps and surrounding shoulder muscles, providing better joint support and preventing future injuries.
- Reducing pain and inflammation
Massage therapy and guided movement may relieve discomfort and support healing.
Anti-inflammatories or Cortisone Injections
Anti-inflammatories may reduce pain and swelling caused by biceps tendonitis.
In more persistent cases, a cortisone injection might provide relief, though it’s not a long-term solution.
Repeated injections may weaken tendons over time. That’s why Dr. Pamela Mehta only recommends it as a last resort.
She’ll guide you through the pros and cons to help you make the best choice for your body.
Possible temporary side effects from a steroid injection include:
- Pain or swelling at the injection site
- Skin discoloration or irritation
- Blood sugar spikes (if you have diabetes)
- Rare risks like infection or nerve irritation
How Long Does It Take to Heal?
Healing from biceps tendonitis depends on the severity of your condition:
- Mild cases improve within a few weeks with rest and avoiding activities that strain the tendon.
- Moderate cases take longer and often require physical therapy to rebuild strength and mobility.
- Severe cases may take up to 6 months, so following a structured rehab plan can help prevent future issues.
Preventing Future Flare-Ups
Biceps tendonitis may return if muscle weakness, poor posture, or improper movement aren’t addressed.
At Resilience Orthopedics, we understand how frustrating shoulder pain can be. That’s why we focus on long-term habits, like exercises and posture adjustments.
This helps you heal, stay pain-free, and return to sports safely.
Exercises to Strengthen the Shoulder
- Rotator Cuff Strengthening
Use resistance bands for external rotations or do seated rows. These exercises stabilize the shoulder joint and reduce stress on the tendon.
- Scapular Stabilization
Scapular squeezes and shoulder rows improve shoulder blade control. This keeps your tendon healthy by ensuring smooth joint movement.
- Eccentric Bicep Curls
These focus on the slow lowering phase to strengthen the tendon and prevent re-injury.
- Stretching
Biceps wall stretch and cross-body shoulder stretch maintain flexibility and reduce tightness.
Postural Adjustments for Desk Workers
Spending long hours at a desk can take a toll on your shoulder. To reduce strain, try these simple adjustments:
- Stand and stretch every 30 minutes to keep muscles relaxed.
- Support your back and keep elbows at a 90-degree angle
- Position your monitor at eye level to avoid neck and shoulder strain.
- Use an ergonomic mouse and keyboard to reduce repetitive strain.
Safe Return-to-Sports Routine
Returning to sports after biceps tendonitis requires patience. Follow these steps for a safe comeback:
- Gradually increase activity to let your tendon strengthen.
- Always warm up to prevent injury.
- Focus on proper form to protect your tendon.
- Only return to full activity when pain-free. If the pain continues, see your doctor before pushing forward.
Take the First Step Toward Shoulder Relief
Shoulder pain can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to face it alone. Dr. Pamela Mehta offers expert and compassionate care to get you back to the life you love.
Don’t let shoulder pain hold you back any longer.
Call us today at (408) 559-3888 or schedule your online consultation with San Jose’s trusted shoulder specialist.
Book a Consultation with Dr. Pamela Mehta, MD
The Best Orthopedic Surgeon in San Jose
Dr. Mehta is a board-certified orthopedic surgeon who can help you recover from your joint condition. If you:
- Are Suffering From Pain and Mobility Issues
- Need Orthopedic Assessment and Advice
- Want Treatment From a Top Orthopedic Doctor
We Can Help
How long should I rest my shoulder with biceps tendonitis?
Recovery depends on how serious the inflammation is. Mild cases often improve in 4–6 weeks with rest and avoiding painful activities.
More severe cases may take a few months. Be gentle with your shoulder, and consider seeing a specialist like Dr. Pamela Mehta to make sure you’re on the right path to healing.
Is a clicking shoulder always biceps tendonitis?
Not always. While biceps tendonitis can cause clicking or popping, it might also be due to a rotator cuff tear, labral tear, or shoulder impingement.
If your shoulder feels off or makes unusual sounds, it’s best to get it checked by your doctor.
What’s the difference between a cortisone shot and physical therapy for biceps tendonitis?
– A cortisone shot provides quick pain relief by reducing inflammation, usually within a few days. But it doesn’t address the underlying cause and may weaken the tendon over time.
– Physical therapy takes longer to show results. But it strengthens the shoulder, restores movement, and prevents the pain from coming back.
Will I need surgery for my biceps tendonitis?
Most people feel better with rest, therapy, and medication. Surgery is rarely needed.
If it is, Dr. Mehta will guide you through your options and help you choose what’s right for you.
How do I know if my biceps tendon is torn instead of just inflamed?
A torn biceps tendon often causes sudden, sharp pain, a popping sound, bruising, or a change in the shape of your bicep. Whereas, tendonitis develops more gradually and doesn’t usually cause those signs.
