Triceps & Biceps Tendon Repair Orthopedic Surgeon
The triceps and biceps are the strongest muscles in the arm, providing the ability to lift, push and swing. Each has tendons that connect the muscles to both the shoulder and elbow bones, which are the weakest areas of the triceps and biceps. If the triceps or biceps sustain a tear, it is usually in the tendons. Jonathan L. Glashow, MD is a triceps and biceps tendon repair orthopedic surgeon that can restore torn upper arm muscles at his clinic in Miami, FL.
Biceps and triceps tendon tears are not common, but they do occur. It is more likely for the tendon near the elbow to tear than the tendon near the shoulder, but partial or complete tears can occur anywhere in the upper arm. Sports injuries are one of the most common causes of a triceps/biceps tendon tear – this can occur in contact sports such as football or rugby, as well as when lifting weights or playing all types of racket or ball sports. Repetitive use injuries can increase the risk of a sudden tendon tear.
Symptoms of Upper Arm Tendon Tears
If you tear a biceps and triceps tendon, it can be a partial or complete tear. While sports injuries are the most common cause of these injuries, anyone can experience an upper arm tendon tear. Landing on an outstretched arm during a fall or reaching to catch a heavy falling object can cause a biceps or triceps injury. Symptoms of an upper arm tendon tear include:
- Feeling a popping sensation in the upper arm (near shoulder or elbow)
- Bruising and/or swelling
- Inability to bend or straighten the elbow
- Weakness in the arm
- A bulge (Popeye arm) or deformity in the upper arm
- Muscle cramping
The treatment for a torn biceps or triceps tendon depends on the extent of the injury. Partial tears usually do not require surgery – rest, medications and rehabilitation can usually repair the tendon. Complete tendon tears in the upper arm require surgery as soon as possible to reattach the tendons to begin recovery.
If you have symptoms of a biceps/triceps tendon tear, contact us right away at the office of Jonathan L. Glashow, MD in Miami, FL. We are available 24 hours a day for professional athletes and anyone who needs exceptional orthopedic care.
