Bicipital Tendon Pain

Bicipital tendon pain (tendinitis) occurs where the bicipital muscle fibers (top area of the biceps beneath the shoulder muscles) attach to bones in the shoulder. This injury can be extremely painful and is usually caused by years of heavy lifting, repetitive motion such as factory work and age. Treatments can include topical applications, medicines, massage and exercise.

Function

• The longer bicipital tendon (there are two) runs between the humerus and acromiom bone of the scapula. When the area gets inflamed these tendons become too large for comfortable movement. The tendons, in turn, put pressure on the outer cartilage of both bones and the bursa sac, which contains slimy fluid similar to that of an egg white. The body responds by emitting cyclooxygenase-2 (Cox-2) enzymes and prostaglandins (chemicals), which cause pain in the tendons.

Effects of Rest & Ice

• Rest and ice can relieve tendon pain. Ice is usually recommended during the first 48 hours after the injury occurs. Resting the affected arm will prevent certain movements that can aggravate the injury. Ice causes vasoconstriction which limits the amount of blood flow and fluids to the area. This can help reduce both pain and inflammation. Ice is most effective for bicipital tendon pain when used at when used at 20-minute intervals throughout the day. Using ice packs can better ensure direct application of the ice on the affected area. Elevating the injury also reduces inflammation.

Types of Medical Treatment

• Anti-inflammatory medicines such as ibuprofen and naproxen can be used for treating bicipital tendonitis pain. These medicines inhibit the Cox-2 enzymes and prostagladins which, in turn, reduces pain and swelling in the area. Topical ointments such as Bengay may also provide relief or bicipital tendon pain. At time, doctors may prescribe steroids for more severe pain.

Other Types of Treatment

• Massage is often recommended for treating bicipital tendon pain once the swelling has subsided. This promotes blood flow,which carries nutrients and medications to the area. Stretching exercises can alleviate tightness in the tendons and also increase blood flow. If the tendon pain is job related, physical therapists can help rehabilitate the arm so those who are on disablility can get back to work. Both physical therapists and doctors sometimes recommend light weightlifting for building strength back into the tendon. This can also help prevent recurring injuries.

Considerations

• Like other types of arthritis, some alternative medical practitioners believe that bicipital tendon pain can also be caused by an overgrowth of candida albicans. Candida albicans is a fungus that grows naturally in the digestive tract and colon. An overuse of antibiotics, a poor diet and stress can sometimes spur this over-proliferation of fungus, causing its toxins to invade cells and cause tendon pain. Treatments can include juicing with vegetables and fruits, probiotics (replenishes natural bacteria) and colon cleanses.

Time Frame

• There is no set time from for healing bicipital tendon pain. Those who rest the affected arm and employ a combination of treatments will typically heal faster than those who are less proactive.