Shoulder pain of tendinous-muscular origin - Bicipital tendinitis

Very low urgency
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This is inflammation of the biceps (a muscle in the upper part of the arm which goes from the shoulder blade, passing through the front of the shoulder, to the elbow flexor tendon) that causes pain in the anterior portion of the shoulder, particularly when pulling or pushing an object from a certain height, or flexing the elbow against resistance. The biceps tendon becomes inflamed when there are compression or shoulder injuries. It is diagnosed by clinical examination. Treatment is targeted at managing the pain and reducing inflammation: rest, locally applied cold initially and then locally applied heat and anti-inflammatory drugs. Physiotherapy helps recovery and strengthens the tendon, and changes habits to prevent recurrence. It is not normally severe, although it does affect everyday life. Seek medical advice if you do not feel better with the treatment or if it is a recurrent problem.
Bibliographic references
  1. Stephen M Simons. J Bryan Dixon. Biceps tendinopathy and tendon rupture. UpToDate. Sep 26, 2016.
  2. Harwood MI, Smith CT. Superior labrum, anterior-posterior lesions and biceps injuries: diagnostic and treatment considerations. Prim Care 2004; 31:831.
  3. Schickendantz M, King D. Nonoperative Management (Including Ultrasound-Guided Injections) of Proximal Biceps Disorders. Clin Sports Med 2016; 35:57.
  4. Kelly MP, Perkinson SG, Ablove RH, Tueting JL. Distal Biceps Tendon Ruptures: An Epidemiological Analysis Using a Large Population Database. Am J Sports Med 2015; 43:2012.
  5. Langford CA. Trastornos perarticulares de las extremidades. Harrison. Principios de Medicina Interna. Volumen 2. 19º Edición: 2248.
Author
Dr. Sara Vitoria
Copyright
© TeckelMedical 2026

Symptoms

    Shoulder pain


    Snapping sound of the biceps, arm pain and weakness


    Limited shoulder movement


    Painful right shoulder


    Joints feel like two rubbers rubbing against each other during movement

Symptoms to watch out for

Pain that does not subside with analgesics.
Fever (temperature higher than 100.4 ºF)

Self-care

Take over-the-counter pain relievers or anti-inflammatories.
Relative rest, rest until symptoms subside.
Avoid sudden movements.
Apply local cold to the injured area 3 times a day to reduce inflammation.
Consult with your doctor about physical therapy.