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.
This type of tendonitis (also spelled tendinitis) is an overuse injury that often happens due to a repeated overhead motion. For instance, professional baseball players, swimmers, tennis players and golfers are at risk for tendonitis in their shoulders, arms and elbows. Tendonitis can also occur because of a sudden, serious load to the tendon.
Biceps tendinitis doesn’t typically occur alone. It most often happens alongside other shoulder issues, including:
If you have biceps tendonitis, you’ll have bicep pain or tenderness in the area in front of your shoulder. This pain may get worse if you continue to participate in physical activity or try to lift your arm over your head.
You may also have upper arm muscle pain that moves down your upper arm bone. Along with pain and tenderness, you may hear a snapping sound or feel a snapping sensation in your shoulder.
