Upper arm tendonitis

A tendonitis in the upper arm is a reaction to small tears in the tendon due to overuse. The tendon swells and becomes painful, making movement more difficult. Because tendons have a relatively poor blood supply, recovery is slow. A tendon in the upper arm that is frequently involved in inflammatory reactions is that of the biceps muscle. This is the tendon of the 'biceps' in your upper arm.

How does a tendonitis in the upper arm arise?

In most cases an acute or repeated (chronic) overload of the tendon is the cause of the inflammation. Think of an acute overload such as a fall or a blow to the upper arm. A repeated overload can be the result of frequent lifting of the arm or repeated bending of the elbow.

There are a number of risk factors for developing an inflammatory reaction in the biceps tendon. For example, a previous biceps injury, poor posture of the trunk or shoulder and reduced shoulder stability. In sports, inflammation of the biceps tendon is often seen in strength athletes who may be training too heavily, or in throwing sports such as rounders, baseball and cricket.

Symptoms of a tendonitis in the upper arm

Characteristic of a tendonitis in the upper arm is a stabbing, sharp pain at the front and top of the shoulder. This pain can occur at rest and during activity and may radiate towards the elbow. The tendon can swell locally, feel warm and be tender to the touch.

Because the biceps tendon is bi-articular, meaning it is involved in both shoulder and elbow movements, movements of these joints can provoke the pain.

An inflammation in the upper part of the upper arm is also called proximal biceps injury. The pain is then located at the front/top of the shoulder. An inflammation in the lower part of the upper arm is called distal biceps injury. The pain is then felt at the elbow (elbow crease).

How is a tendonitis in the upper arm diagnosed?

A tendonitis in the upper arm can be well diagnosed during physical examination by a physiotherapist or GP, especially when it involves a superficial muscle such as the biceps.

If there is doubt or uncertainty, the GP can refer for additional tests in hospital. In most cases an ultrasound scan will suffice to diagnose tendonitis in the upper arm.

Treatment of a tendonitis in the upper arm

Because a tendonitis in the upper arm is usually the result of overuse, rest and graded loading are the first treatment options to be implemented. It is then important to gradually build up the load with the upper arm again. The physiotherapist is ideally suited to guide this process.

In addition, the physiotherapist can use treatment options such as massage, frictions, taping, dry needling or shockwave.

Do you suffer from tendonitis in the upper arm? Ask a physiotherapist for help.