Biceps Tendon Repair Surgery
A torn biceps tendon doesn’t just cause pain—it can take away your ability to do everyday things like lifting groceries, turning doorknobs, or even participating in sports. At Princeton Brain, Spine & Orthopedics, our expert orthopedic surgeons specialize in advanced biceps tendon repair to restore your strength, function, and quality of life.
If you’ve suffered a tendon rupture or are experiencing persistent weakness, our team provides the comprehensive evaluation and surgical care you need. Learn more about what biceps tendon repair involves, when it’s necessary, and what you can expect from recovery.
Where is the Biceps Tendon?
The biceps muscle is the large muscle at the front of your upper arm that helps you bend your elbow and rotate your forearm. This muscle is anchored to the bones by two tendons:
- Proximal biceps tendon: Attaches the top of the biceps muscle to the shoulder joint.
- Distal biceps tendon: Attaches the bottom of the biceps muscle to the radius bone in the forearm, near the elbow.
When people talk about a “biceps tendon tear,” they’re usually referring to the distal tendon near the elbow. A tear here makes it difficult to rotate your forearm (like turning a doorknob or using a screwdriver) and can cause visible changes in the arm’s appearance, often called the “Popeye deformity.”
How Does a Biceps Tendon Tear?
A biceps tendon tear usually happens when the tendon is placed under sudden, excessive stress. This often occurs during activities that forcefully straighten the elbow while the biceps is contracting, such as lifting something too heavy, catching a heavy falling object, or trying to break a fall with your arm.
Other common causes and contributing factors include:
- Overuse and repetitive strain: Years of lifting, pulling, or sports activity can weaken the tendon.
- Age-related wear and tear: The tendon becomes less flexible and more prone to tearing as we get older.
- Smoking and nicotine use: Reduces blood flow and weakens tendon quality.
- Steroid use: Both corticosteroids and anabolic steroids can increase the risk of tendon injury.
When the tendon tears, patients often report hearing or feeling a “pop” followed by sharp pain and immediate weakness. Depending on whether the tear is partial or complete, strength loss and deformity may range from mild to very noticeable.
What is a Biceps Tendon Repair?
Biceps tendon repair is a surgical procedure that reattaches a torn or ruptured tendon to the bone. The biceps muscle—the large muscle in the front of your upper arm—has two attachment points:
- Proximal tendon (at the shoulder)
- Distal tendon (at the elbow, connecting to the radius bone)
When the distal tendon tears, patients can lose up to 40% of their forearm rotation strength (supination) without surgery. That’s why repair is so important: it restores the tendon to its normal position, giving patients back their strength and mobility for work, daily life, and sports.
When is Surgery Needed?
Surgery is typically recommended for:
- Complete distal biceps tendon ruptures (these do not heal on their own)
- Active individuals, manual laborers, and athletes who require full arm strength
- Patients with weakness or pain that interferes with everyday activities
Timing is critical; surgery should ideally be performed within 2-3 weeks of the injury. Waiting longer may require more complex reconstruction and can reduce the chances of a full recovery.
Surgical Techniques
Our orthopedic surgeons use advanced techniques to ensure the best outcomes. The two main approaches are:
- Single-incision repair: Performed through one incision, often using a button or anchor system to reattach the tendon.
- Double-incision repair: Two incisions are used to restore the tendon’s natural position, often chosen in more complex cases.
Both methods provide excellent long-term results. The choice depends on your injury and anatomy.
Recovery and Rehabilitation
Recovery requires a combination of protection and physical therapy:
- First 2 weeks: arm is protected in a splint and sling.
- Weeks 2-6: a hinged elbow brace allows safe motion.
- Physical therapy begins early, progressing from gentle mobility to strengthening.
- 4-6 months: most patients return to heavy lifting, work, and sports.
Our rehabilitation specialists work with you every step of the way to ensure a safe and successful recovery.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a biceps tendon heal on its own without surgery?
A complete distal tear cannot reattach on its own. Partial tears or proximal shoulder tears may be managed non-surgically, but with some permanent strength loss.
What are the risks and complications of biceps tendon repair surgery?
Like any surgery, biceps tendon repair carries some risks. Possible complications include infection, stiffness in the elbow, nerve injury, or re-tearing of the tendon. Some patients may experience lingering weakness or numbness, though uncommon. Your surgeon at Princeton Brain, Spine & Orthopedics will discuss your individual risk factors and take every precaution to ensure a safe and successful recovery.
Is biceps tendon repair an outpatient procedure?
Yes, in most cases. Patients go home the same day and begin recovery immediately under guidance.
How soon after injury should I have surgery?
Ideally within 2–3 weeks. Early repair allows for simpler surgery and better long-term outcomes. Delaying surgery can make the procedure more complex and recovery slower.
Why Choose Princeton Brain, Spine & Orthopedics
At Princeton Brain, Spine & Orthopedics, our expert orthopedic surgeons combine advanced surgical techniques with personalized rehabilitation to help patients return to full strength and activity. We deliver world-class orthopedic care with the precision and compassion every patient deserves.
Get Expect Care for Your Biceps Injury
If you’re experiencing a biceps tendon injury, our team at Princeton Brain, Spine & Orthopedics is here to guide you through every step, from evaluation and treatment planning to recovery and rehabilitation. Take control of your injury and schedule a consultation today to discuss the best options for restoring your strength and function.
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