Rupture of the biceps muscle (M. Biceps rupture)
Rehab for rupture of the biceps muscle
Description of biceps muscle rupture
Tearing or rupture of the tendon of the long head of the biceps muscle (caput longum). Complete rupture of the long tendon of the biceps muscle is an injury that occurs just at the top of the upper arm where the tendon runs into the shoulder (at the inter tubercular sulcus). Due to the degenerative changes that occur throughout life, complete tearing is a common injury for athletes over 40 years. For younger patients normally only, severe inflammation of the area is the result of overloading the tendon. The injury is caused by intense activity of- or strain on the biceps muscle, and is typical for weightlifters, rowers, tennis players, gymnasts and in sports that require throwing. In addition, people who take anabolic steroids are at increased risk of injury, as the substances in the steroids weakens the tendons.
Symptoms of biceps muscle rupture
- A snap in the arm and immediate distinct pain on the front of the arm, as soon as the injury occurs.
- A muscular bagging in the middle of the arm as the biceps falls down when the tendon breaks.
- Strongly reduced elbow flexion, and outwards rotation (supination).
- Shoulder movement is usually not affected.
Examination for biceps muscle rupture
- Analysis / Inspection / Palpation / Movement Test of Passive, Active and Power ROM
- Extension of m. Biceps.
- Strength test of m. Biceps.
- Speed test.
- Yeargason test.
Treatment for biceps muscle rupture
- Acute MCE.
- The injury should be examined by a doctor.
What can the doctor do:
Normally, if the injury has to be undergo an operation to sew the tendon back together, the arm will be immobilized for during daily tasks for 4 weeks.
Subsequent Rehab:
- Isometric Tension, and Assissted Range and Motion (AROM). Range Of Motion Movements (as soon as the pain allows it; which is typically 24-48 hours after surgery.
- This means that one passively or through the help of others can do exercises where the elbow is bent and stretched in calm movements, as much as possible within the pain limit. “This is done without actively using the arm”.
- Static tension is created by tightening the muscle against a resistance without a movement in the elbow and shoulder / muscle. The tension must take place while bending, stretching, inward rotation and outward rotation of the elbow.
- Gentle active ROM exercises should start after a week of surgery, focusing on elbow flexion. This is done simultaneously with the above mentioned static exercises.
- When there is full ROM, which is usually after 4 weeks, weight training and weight gain can begin. See rehab program 1.
Social Medier