08/15/2025
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WHAT IS BICEPS/TRICEPS TENDONITIS?
The biceps brachii muscle is a large muscle that originates at the scapula and attaches to the radius of the forearm. Because of this connection to the shoulder and elbow, the biceps muscle is used to flex the shoulder and elbow. This muscle is often used to push, pull, and lift objects overhead.
While the biceps muscle controls the front of the upper arm, the triceps brachii muscle extends along the back up the upper arm. This muscle originates at the humerus and scapula in the back of the shoulder and connects to the ulna of the forearm. Its primary function is to straighten the arm by extending the elbow joint.
These muscles are connected to the shoulder and arm through several tendons, thick bands of connective tissues that act like ropes holding the muscle to bone. Biceps tendonitis is a condition that occurs when one or both tendons of the biceps brachii become irritated. Likewise, Triceps tendonitis can also occur when one or more tendons of the triceps brachii become irritated. This irritation can cause the affected muscles to become swollen and tender to the touch.
WHAT CAUSES BICEPS TENDONITIS?
Biceps tendonitis may develop gradually from the effects of wear and tear, or it can happen suddenly from a direct injury. The most common cause of biceps tendonitis is overuse from certain types of work or sports activities that require repeated elbow flexion. The tendon may also become irritated in response to other problems in the shoulder, such as rotator cuff tears, impingement, or instability.
WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS OF BICEPS TENDONITIS?
If you are suffering from biceps tendonitis, you may experience pain in the front of your shoulder and upper arm. Common symptoms of biceps tendonitis include:
Increased pain when raising the arm overhead
Tenderness and weakness in the biceps muscle
Pain or difficulty pulling
Reduced range of motion
Swelling and tenderness in the affected arm
Snapping sound or sensation felt in the front of the shoulder
WHAT CAUSES TRICEPS TENDONITIS?
Triceps tendonitis often occurs when repetitive or prolonged activities begin to strain the triceps tendon. Some activities that may lead to irritation of the triceps tendon include repetitive pushing movements or straightening the elbow against resistance, such as performing push-ups, dips, or lifting heavy weights. It can also occur suddenly from a heavy impact or blow to the arm.
WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS OF TRICEPS TENDONITIS?
One common symptom of triceps tendonitis is pain in the triceps area, around the back of the upper arm or shoulder. Pain often worsens upon movement of the arm. Other symptoms of triceps tendonitis may include:
Tenderness around the elbow or back of the upper arm
Difficulty straightening or moving the elbow from a flexed position
Bulging or swelling in the back of the upper arm
A popping noise or sensation at the time of injury
HOW LONG DOES TENDONITIS TAKE TO HEAL?
Average recovery times for biceps tendonitis or triceps tendonitis depend on the severity of the injury and the level of care shown. For mild irritation, many patients may see full recovery in several days. In some cases, it can take weeks to months to show noticeable improvement.
Regardless of the severity, it is important to take appropriate measures to get your injuries diagnosed and treated to ensure swift recovery. Even mild cases of tendonitis can become chronic or severe if ignored and left untreated.
TREATMENT OPTIONS FOR BICEPS/TRICEPS TENDONITIS
With appropriate treatment, most cases of biceps tendonitis and triceps tendonitis can recover after a period of rest. You may be prescribed OTC pain medications that can help reduce swelling and pain.
