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Distal Biceps Tendon Tears

What is the Distal Biceps Tendon?


The distal biceps tendon attaches the biceps muscle to the radius bone in the forearm, allowing for forearm rotation (supination) and elbow flexion.


What is This Condition?


A distal biceps tendon tear occurs when the tendon pulls away from the bone, usually suddenly and often completely.


What are the Symptoms?


  • Sudden, sharp pain in the front of the elbow during lifting

  • A “pop” or tearing sensation at the time of injury

  • Bruising and swelling in the elbow and forearm

  • Weakness with twisting the forearm (turning a doorknob, using a screwdriver)

  • A bulge in the upper arm where the tendon retracts


What Causes It?


  • Heavy lifting, often with the elbow bent

  • Sudden eccentric load (catching something falling)

  • More common in middle-aged men

  • Risk factors: smoking, steroid use


How is It Diagnosed?


  • Exam: weakness with forearm rotation, visible deformity

  • MRI or ultrasound: confirm a complete or partial tear


How is It Treated?


Non-surgical:


  • Reserved for older or low-demand patients

  • Loss of significant forearm strength is expected


Surgical:


  • Primary repair: tendon is reattached to the bone, ideally within a few weeks of injury for best results


Learn more from AAOS (OrthoInfo):

https://orthoinfo.aaos.org/en/diseases--conditions/biceps-tendon-tear-at-the-elbow/

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