Shoulder conditions
Biceps tendinitis
Inflammation of the biceps tendon at the front of the shoulder, a common source of aching pain that usually settles with the right care.
Tendon inflammation
Front-of-shoulder pain
Usually non-surgical
What is biceps tendinitis?
The long head of the biceps tendon runs through the front of the shoulder, where it is prone to irritation. Biceps tendinitis is inflammation of this tendon, causing pain at the front of the shoulder that can travel down the arm.
It frequently accompanies other shoulder problems such as rotator cuff disease or impingement, and over time the tendon can fray or, occasionally, rupture.
Overview
At a glance
Often part of a bigger picture
Because biceps tendinitis commonly travels with rotator cuff and labral problems, Dr. Cohn evaluates the whole shoulder, not just the tendon.
Symptoms & signs
How biceps tendinitis feels
The pain is typically focused at the front of the shoulder.
An aching pain at the front of the shoulder, sometimes radiating down the arm
Pain that worsens with overhead reaching and lifting
Tenderness directly over the front of the shoulder
An occasional snapping or clicking sensation
Pain that disturbs sleep
Causes & risk factors
What causes it
Most cases come from overuse or from another shoulder problem.
Overuse
Repetitive overhead lifting, throwing, or work strains the tendon.
Cuff disease
Rotator cuff tears and impingement commonly inflame the biceps tendon.
Age-related wear
The tendon frays and weakens over time.
Sudden strain
A heavy lift can acutely irritate or tear the tendon.
Treatment options
How biceps tendinitis is treated
Most cases respond well to non-surgical care; surgery addresses a frayed or painful tendon.
- Rest from aggravating overhead activity
- Anti-inflammatory medication and ice
- Physical therapy to correct mechanics and strengthen the cuff
- A targeted injection in persistent cases
- The irritated tendon is released from its painful origin
- It is reattached lower on the arm bone
- Removes the pain source while preserving biceps strength
- Often done alongside rotator cuff repair
Related procedure
When the tendon stays painful or is badly frayed, Dr. Cohn performs a biceps tenodesis.
Recovery
What recovery looks like
Non-surgical recovery is measured in weeks; surgical recovery a few months.
Settle the pain
Rest, therapy, and anti-inflammatories calm the inflamed tendon.
Rebuild
Progressive strengthening and mechanics work restores function.
Protect
If surgery is done, a sling protects the repair early on.
Full use
Strength and full activity return after rehab.
FAQ
Common questions
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It's usually not dangerous, but it can be persistently uncomfortable. The key is treating any associated rotator cuff or labral problem too.
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No meaningful loss for most people. Tenodesis relieves the pain while keeping the biceps anchored and functional.
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Yes, most cases settle with rest, therapy, and time. Surgery is reserved for tendons that stay painful or are badly frayed.
Related procedures