Biceps Tendinosis Treatment in Nebraska

Experiencing pain in the front of your shoulder? It could be biceps tendinosis. Doctors often misdiagnose this condition as rotator cuff tendinosis or shoulder bursitis because of overlapping symptoms.

At Nebraska Hand & Shoulder Institute, our expert medical team provides accurate diagnosis and advanced treatment options for biceps tendinosis.

Don’t let shoulder pain hold you back. Schedule your appointment today and get the relief you need.

Understanding Biceps Tendinosis

Diagnosing biceps tendinosis can be complex. While the biceps tendon has been the subject of increased attention over the past decade, shoulder pain is often related to painful arc syndrome caused by a prominent acromion. In some cases, acromioplasty may be needed when conservative treatments like NSAIDs or activity modification fail to provide relief.

The hallmark symptom of biceps tendinosis is pain at the front of the shoulder, especially during forward arm movement. However, this pain can also mimic symptoms of bursitis or rotator cuff tendinosis, making it difficult to distinguish without expert evaluation.

The long head of the biceps tendon (LHBT) originates at the top of the glenoid and connects to the glenoid labrum. It travels through the bicipital groove, stabilized by the transverse humeral ligament, before attaching to the biceps muscle. Bicep tendon pain may stem from age-related changes, overuse, or impingement from a prominent acromion, sometimes associated with chronic rotator cuff tears.

In adults over 60, it’s common to find the biceps tendon ruptured and scarred within the bicipital groove. Isolated tears of the LHBT are often treated conservatively with medication to reduce inflammation and discomfort. If the patient doesn’t mind a “Popeye” deformity, functional loss is typically minimal.

Arthroscopy remains a reliable diagnostic method for persistent shoulder pain caused by a non-ruptured bicep tendon. During surgery, the provider may address both rotator cuff tears and biceps tendon problems depending on the findings.

Treatment Options for Bicep Tendinosis

At Nebraska Hand & Shoulder Institute, we specialize in advanced treatments for bicep tendinosis, including surgical solutions that help restore shoulder mobility and reduce pain.

Our team routinely treats tendon injuries caused by overuse, aging, or heavy lifting, with a focus on bicep tendon tears and related upper arm bone issues.

We offer two primary surgical procedures for patients with bicep tendinosis:

Tenodesis – This involves anchoring the biceps tendon to the upper arm bone using a surgical screw. It provides stability and relieves pain, especially when more than 30% of the tendon is frayed.
Tenotomy – In this option, the tendon is released to alleviate discomfort. While effective, it may lead to a cosmetic change known as the “Popeye deformity,” depending on the arm’s contour.

In addition to surgery, we offer customized physical therapy programs designed to accelerate recovery and restore your full range of motion.

Whether you're dealing with chronic bicep tendinosis or an acute tendon tear, our comprehensive care model supports your return to daily activities with minimal discomfort and maximum efficiency.

Take the First Step Toward Relief from Bicep Tendinosis

Don’t let bicep tendinosis keep you from living an active, pain-free life. At Nebraska Hand & Shoulder Institute, our experienced team offers personalized care and proven treatment options tailored to your specific needs. Using advanced surgical techniques and comprehensive rehabilitation plans, we help patients restore shoulder strength, mobility and reduce pain.

Ready to get started? Schedule your consultation today and begin your path to recovery with expert care for bicep tendinosis.

Severe Biceps Tendonitis

50% of bicep rotten

MRI of Bicep Tendonopathy

Shredded bicep

Trimmed bicep

Decayed bicep