Overview

Biceps tendonitis is a common overuse injury that involves inflammation or irritation of the upper portion of the biceps tendon, particularly the long head tendon. This tendon travels through the bicipital groove of the humerus and attaches to the shoulder joint, playing a critical role in shoulder stabilization and arm movement.

When subjected to repetitive stress or improper biomechanics, this tendon becomes inflamed, leading to pain, stiffness, and reduced function. This condition is frequently seen in athletes who engage in repetitive overhead activities, such as swimming, tennis, baseball, or weightlifting. However, biceps tendonitis is not exclusive to athletes. It also affects individuals in the general population, especially those with poor posture, weak shoulder stabilizers, improper lifting mechanics, or age-related tendon degeneration. Even everyday tasks like carrying a heavy bag, painting a ceiling, or working long hours at a desk with rounded shoulders can gradually contribute to this injury.

At DMPhysios, a leading physiotherapy and rehabilitation clinic based in Noida, we specialize in managing spine and sports-related conditions through a patient-centered rehabilitation approach. Our team recognizes that biceps tendonitis is not merely a concern for athletes—it can significantly interfere with essential daily activities such as reaching for a shelf, washing your hair, lifting groceries, or even sleeping comfortably at night.

That’s why our focus at DMPhysios goes beyond temporary pain relief. We aim to identify and correct the root causes, restore optimal shoulder function, and educate patients on sustainable prevention strategies. Whether you are a competitive athlete or someone dealing with shoulder discomfort during routine activities, DMPhysios is committed to helping you return to a pain-free, active lifestyle through individualized care and advanced physiotherapy protocols.

Symptoms of Biceps Tendonitis

Recognizing the early signs of biceps tendonitis can significantly help in prompt management and better outcomes. Common symptoms include:

• Pain or tenderness in the front of the shoulder
• Pain that worsens with overhead activity or lifting
• A snapping or popping sound in the shoulder
• Weakness in the shoulder or upper arm
• A dull, aching pain that may radiate down the arm
• Visible swelling or redness in severe cases

Often, patients with biceps tendonitis at DMPhysios describe a progressive discomfort that initially begins as soreness and later escalates to pain interfering with routine tasks like combing hair or putting on a shirt.

Types of Biceps Tendonitis

Biceps tendonitis can be classified based on the tendon involved:

1. Long Head Biceps Tendonitis

• The most common type
• Involves the tendon that runs through the bicipital groove of the humerus and attaches to the shoulder joint
• Often linked with shoulder pathologies such as rotator cuff tears or impingement syndrome

2. Short Head Biceps Tendonitis

• Less common
• Affects the tendon that attaches to the coracoid process
• Usually occurs with traumatic injuries or direct strain

Another classification is based on severity:

• Acute Biceps Tendonitis: Sudden onset due to overuse or strain
• Chronic Biceps Tendonitis: Develops over time due to degeneration or repetitive stress

Causes of Biceps Tendonitis

The root causes of biceps tendonitis often stem from repetitive motions, improper biomechanics, and underlying shoulder dysfunctions. Key causes include:

• Repetitive overhead activities (e.g., swimming, throwing, or lifting)
• Poor posture (rounded shoulders, forward head)
• Shoulder instability or impingement
• Age-related degeneration (tendon wear and tear)
• Direct trauma to the upper arm
• Improper lifting techniques or sudden pulling motions

Patients presenting at DMPhysios frequently report a history of repetitive shoulder use or improper form during upper-body exercises, which contributes significantly to the development of biceps tendonitis.

Risk Factors

Several factors can increase the risk of developing biceps tendonitis, including:

• Age: Older adults are more prone due to tendon degeneration
• Athletics: Sports requiring overhead motions (e.g., volleyball, baseball, swimming)
• Occupations: Jobs involving repetitive lifting or overhead work (e.g., painters, carpenters)
• Previous injuries: History of rotator cuff injuries or shoulder instability
• Poor posture: Especially common in desk-bound professionals and students
• Muscle imbalances: Weak rotator cuff or scapular stabilizers

At DMPhysios, we often assess the entire kinetic chain to identify not just the shoulder issue, but also contributing factors like weak core muscles or restricted thoracic mobility that predispose patients to biceps tendonitis.

Treatment Options for Biceps Tendonitis

The treatment approach for biceps tendonitis depends on the severity and underlying causes. It typically starts conservatively before considering surgical interventions. Common treatments include:

• Rest and Activity Modification: Avoiding aggravating activities to allow inflammation to settle
• Ice Application: Reduces inflammation and swelling
• Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs): Help relieve pain and inflammation
• Corticosteroid Injections: For persistent cases, though used sparingly due to tendon weakening risks
• Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy: In select cases to promote healing
• Surgical Intervention: Considered for complete tears or cases unresponsive to conservative treatment

Physiotherapy Treatment for Biceps Tendonitis

At DMPhysios, we offer comprehensive, evidence-based physiotherapy for biceps tendonitis, focusing on both short-term pain relief and long-term functional restoration. Our patient-centered rehabilitation approach is designed to restore movement, reduce recurrence, and enhance performance.

Here’s how we structure our physiotherapy program for biceps tendonitis:

1. Initial Phase – Pain Management and Inflammation Control

Goals:

• Reduce pain and inflammation
• Protect the tendon from further strain

Techniques Used:

• Cryotherapy (ice packs)
• Accelerated Healing Therapy
• Gentle passive range of motion (PROM) exercises
• Taping techniques to offload the tendon
• Postural corrections

At this stage, patients are educated on activity modification, avoiding overhead movements and heavy lifting that could exacerbate symptoms.

2. Intermediate Phase – Restore Range of Motion and Strength

Goals:

• Restore full shoulder mobility
• Begin tendon loading under controlled conditions

Interventions:

• Active-assisted and active ROM exercises
• Isometric strengthening for the biceps and shoulder stabilizers
• Scapular stabilizing exercises (e.g., wall slides, scapular retractions)
• Stretching tight anterior shoulder structures (pectoralis major/minor)
• Manual therapy for tight capsule or fascial restrictions

DMPhysios therapists tailor these exercises based on individual limitations and muscle imbalances. Attention is paid to correcting scapulohumeral rhythm, which often plays a significant role in biceps tendonitis.

3. Advanced Phase – Strengthening and Functional Training

Goals:

• Strengthen shoulder and upper limb muscles
• Improve neuromuscular control
• Prepare for return to activity or sport

Key Exercises:

• Eccentric biceps loading (e.g., slow biceps curls)
• Theraband or dumbbell strengthening for deltoids, rotator cuff, and scapular muscles
• Proprioceptive training (e.g., bodyblade, ball toss on unstable surfaces)
• Closed chain exercises (e.g., wall push-ups, quadruped scapular push-ups)
• Core and posture integration exercises

4. Return-to-Activity Phase

Athletes and physically active individuals undergo sport-specific drills to ensure safe return to play. Functional testing, fatigue testing, and load tolerance are assessed to prevent recurrence.

At DMPhysios, we also incorporate kinesiotaping, dry needling, and cupping therapy when indicated, as adjuncts to promote healing and reduce muscle tension.

Prevention of Biceps Tendonitis

Preventing biceps tendonitis is possible through lifestyle changes, body mechanics education, and regular exercise. Here are some practical tips:

• Maintain proper posture, especially when working at a desk or computer
• Warm up adequately before engaging in sports or workouts
• Strengthen shoulder stabilizers and rotator cuff muscles
• Avoid overloading the shoulder with sudden heavy lifts
• Use proper technique in weightlifting and sports
• Take regular breaks during repetitive overhead work
• Include mobility work in your routine for thoracic spine and shoulders

DMPhysios offers preventive screening for athletes and fitness enthusiasts, which includes posture analysis, functional movement screening, and corrective exercise programs to avoid injuries like biceps tendonitis before they develop.

Conclusion

Biceps tendonitis is a common yet often overlooked cause of shoulder pain, especially in athletes and professionals involved in repetitive upper limb tasks. Left untreated, it can lead to chronic pain, tendon tears, and compromised upper limb function. However, with timely diagnosis and a tailored rehabilitation plan, complete recovery is not only possible but also sustainable.

At DMPhysios, a trusted name in Noida for spine and sports conditions, our focus is on patient-centered rehabilitation. Whether you’re an athlete aiming to return to play or a working professional struggling with daily shoulder pain, we’re committed to helping you regain full function and prevent recurrence.

Take the first step toward pain-free movement—book your consultation with DMPhysios today. Let us help you move better, live stronger, and stay injury-free.