How to Heal Biceps Tendinitis

Tendinitis is characterized by inflamed tendons, the fibers that attach muscles to bones. This condition can occur in your biceps or any other part of the body. The most common causes are injury or overuse of the affected area. For the most part, conservative self-care measures are sufficient to heal tendinitis. Surgery is necessary if you have ruptured the tendon. Healing times vary depending on the severity of the injury and how diligently you follow recovery procedures.

Instructions

Healing Your Tendinitis

• 1

  Rest the affected area to encourage healing and prevent further damage. If your bicep tendinitis is due to a sports injury, take a break from that activity until the damage is healed. Do not lift anything heavy. Talk to your doctor for guidance on which personal and professional activities are appropriate and inappropriate. He can also suggest how long you should rest the arm. Do not force yourself to do things if you are experiencing pain; this will just delay recovery.

• 2

  Apply ice to the affected area. You can use an ice pack, frozen vegetables or ice wrapped in a cloth. Do this for 15 to 20 minutes three to four times a day.

• 3

  Take over-the-counter NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) to relieve pain and inflammation. They include aspirin, Motrin, Aleve, Advil and similar drugs. If your pain is more severe, your doctor may prescribe corticosteroids, administered either topically or through injection.

• 4

  Consider seeing a physical therapist who can teach you exercises to strengthen the tendon. This can ease pain and help prevent future injury.

• 5

  Wrap the bicep with an ACE bandage or some other compression material until swelling has subsided. Your doctor or physical therapist can show you to proper way to wrap it. She may also suggest wearing a sling to immobilize the bicep.

• 6

  Consider using natural supplements that encourage healing or treat inflammation. The University of Maryland Medical Center suggests the following supplements that may help alleviate your tendinitis. However, consult your doctor first. You do not need to take every supplement, as some offer the same benefits.

  Vitamin C (500mg, twice a day) promotes healing, calcium (1,500mg a day) and magnesium (750mg a day) promote muscle strength and the healing of connective tissue; bromelain (750mg three times a day) eases inflammation and swelling; and curcumin (400mg three times a day) treats inflammation.