Biceps tendonitis is irritation and inflammation in the long head of the biceps tendon. This tendon connects your bicep to your shoulder. The condition can occur due to overuse or general wear and tear. Treatment typically starts conservatively, with rest and ice. If your condition is persistent, you may need surgery.
Biceps tendonitis can happen with the wear and tear that you put on your tendons during your usual daily activities. As you get older, these tendons start to wear down and can get worse when you overuse them. When you use the same shoulder motions over and over again, the repeated wear and tear can lead to the condition. Biceps tendonitis frequently affects athletes because of the repeated overhead motions they make in their sports. Baseball players, tennis players, golfers and swimmers are particularly at risk of developing the condition.
In cases of serious or constant overuse, a tendon may fray and eventually cause a bicep tear. A tendon can also tear as part of an injury, like moving or twisting your elbow or shoulder in an awkward way, or falling down with your arm outstretched. At the elbow, the bicep tendon most often tears while lifting a heavy object (for example, a couch or a refrigerator).
