What to Expect With Bicep Shoulder Surgery

Bicep shoulder surgery is required when the tendon connecting the bicep to the shoulder is ruptured, usually due to years of wear and tear.

Symptoms

• The symptoms associated with a bicep tear at the shoulder include: sudden sharp pain in the upper arm, a popping sound, a bulge in the arm and bruising.

Diagnosis

• A doctor can usually tell through a physical examination if the bicep shoulder tendon is completely torn, but an MRI may be necessary to diagnose partial tears.

Partial Tear Treatment

• Some doctors may prescribe arthroscopic treatment for partial tears but usually all that is needed is ice and anti-inflammatory medicine.

Complete Tear Treatment

• For complete tears, arthroscopic surgery is required. This involves re-attaching the bicep tendon to the shoulder.

Recovery

• Bicep stretching exercises can begin as soon as two weeks after surgery, but strenuous bicep exercises are usually restricted for roughly six months.