The biceps muscle in the upper arm is crucial for elbow and forearm movement, attaching to the bone via the distal biceps tendon. A distal biceps tendon tear occurs when this tendon is partially or completely torn or detached from the bone at the elbow joint. This injury often results from sudden, forceful actions like lifting heavy objects or breaking a fall.
Risk factors for a distal biceps tendon tear include age (typically occurring more frequently in individuals over 40), participation in activities that involve repetitive elbow motion or heavy lifting, and previous elbow injuries. These factors can weaken the tendon over time, increasing the likelihood of injury even with normal activities.
A distal biceps tendon tear is different to a proximal biceps tendon tear which occurs when one or both of the tendons attaching the biceps muscle to the shoulder tears or detaches.
Distal biceps tendon tears can be classified into:
The primary cause of a distal biceps tendon tear is acute trauma to the elbow joint, typically involving sudden and forceful contraction of the biceps muscle. This can occur during weightlifting, sudden pulling motions, or accidents where the arm is forcibly straightened against resistance.
Chronic overuse or repetitive strain may also contribute to tendon degeneration and eventual rupture.
Symptoms of a distal biceps tendon rupture include:
The elbow joint consists of three bones: the humerus (upper arm bone), the radius, and the ulna. Ligaments and muscles surround these bones, including the biceps brachii muscle and the distal biceps tendon, which connects the biceps muscle to radius bone. The biceps tendon plays a crucial role in elbow flexion and forearm supination (movement of the forearm and hand where the palm is turned to face upward or forward), essential for various daily activities.
In a distal biceps tendon tear, the structures affected include the biceps muscle, the distal biceps tendon itself, and potentially surrounding ligaments and tissues of the elbow joint.
Diagnosing a distal biceps tendon tear typically involves a thorough physical examination by a specialist such as Mr Soong Chua or Mr Jason Harvey. They will assess symptoms, such as swelling, bruising, and weakness in the affected arm. Imaging tests such as x-rays, ultrasound, or MRI scans may be ordered to confirm the extent of the tear and determine if it is partial or complete. This diagnostic process helps guide the appropriate treatment plan.
For partial tears or mild cases, non-surgical treatments may include:
These conservative measures aim to alleviate symptoms and restore function without surgical intervention.
Surgery is typically recommended for complete tears or when non-surgical treatments fail to restore adequate function. Early surgical intervention within the first 2 to 3 weeks post-injury is optimal, as delayed treatment can lead to tendon scarring and shortening, reducing surgical success. Surgical options include:
Our experienced surgeons will discuss with you to determine which procedure best suits your specific condition and needs. They will provide personalised guidance based on the extent of the injury and other individual factors.
These notes from OrthoSport Victoria are for educational purposes only and are not to be used as medical advice. Please seek the advice of your specific surgeon or other health care provider with any questions regarding medical conditions and treatment.
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