Biceps Tendinitis in Manhattan, NY

Biceps tendinitis implies degeneration and disorganization of the biceps tendon fibers, typically caused by overuse injuries. The long head of the biceps (one of the two biceps muscles) is most often the affected portion. There is a distal portion of the tendon, near the elbow fold, and a proximal portion of the tendon up by the shoulder. Both parts of the tendon can become tendinopathic or over-worked. Biceps tendinopathy is rarely seen in isolation. It is caused by overuse, tendon impingement, shoulder joint instability or trauma. Therefore, it coexists with other pathologies of the shoulder, including rotator cuff impingement syndrome, rotator cuff tears, labral tears, SLAP lesions and shoulder instability. It is common in sports that involve throwing, swimming, gymnastics and contact sports. Occupations that involve overhead shoulder work or heavy lifting are also at risk.

Pain is seen in the region of the anterior shoulder located over the bicipital groove. Sometimes the pain may radiate down the elbow across the front of the bicep. Other symptoms may include:

• Pain with overhead activities and throwing
• Pain is made worse with shoulder flexion, forearm supination, and/or elbow flexion
• Patients may describe a feeling of weakness, clicking or snapping with shoulder movements

Bicep tendinitis may be diagnosed through a combination of physical examination, medical history assessment, and imaging tests in some cases. During the physical evaluation, Dr. Kohler l will assess the affected area, looking for signs of inflammation, tenderness, and pain. He will also discuss the patient's activities, job duties, previous injuries, and any other factors that may point to the probability of bicep tendinitis. In some cases, an MRI may be performed to visualize the bicep tendon and surrounding structures, helping to confirm the diagnosis and rule out other possible causes of pain, like a torn tendon. This comprehensive approach ensures an accurate diagnosis and allows Dr. Kohler to recommend the most appropriate course of treatment for each patient.

For patients who suffer from biceps tendinitis, Ospina Medical offers a variety of treatment options. Patients may benefit from cortisone or steroid injections to the biceps tendon sheath which is an area around the tendon itself. This may help with decreasing inflammation and improving pain, however it does not repair the damaged tendon. We also offer Regenexx regenerative medicine procedures that can help heal and restore strength to damaged or torn tendons. Our providers utilize platelet rich plasma (PRP) and if needed bone marrow concentrate containing stem cells to stimulate the body’s own natural healing response that can lead to resolution of partial tears and tendinitis.

If you suffer from biceps tendinitis, contact Ospina Medical to schedule an appointment and learn more about your treatment options. Our providers specialize in Regenexx treatments that can help heal and restore damaged or partially torn tendons. Book your consultation at Ospina Medical in Midtown Manhattan today.

Can biceps tendinitis heal on its own?
Yes, biceps tendinitis can heal on its own, but it may require up to a few months of resting and abstaining from the sport or activity that caused the tendon pain. If you’d like to get back to your normal desired routine and activities, Ospina Medical recommends you have the tendon treated nonsurgically with a steroid injection, platelet-rich plasma, or regenerative therapies.

What happens if biceps tendinitis goes untreated and unrested?
Untreated biceps tendinitis puts individuals at significant risk of a painful tear, which will likely require surgery and a recovery time of three months or more.

How much do nonsurgical treatment options for biceps tendinitis cost at Ospina Medical?
Prices for nonsurgical biceps tendinitis treatment will vary considerably based on the condition of your biceps tendons, pain levels, and activity goals and timelines. Please contact our Midtown Manhattan, NY office to set up a consultation and learn more.