Biceps or triceps tendon tear

Symptoms

Common signs:

• Pop and bruising in the arm
• Elbow pain

Less common

• Bulge in upper arm
• Weak twisting

Look up a symptom: Elbow pain · Shoulder pain

When to get medical care

Causes

Heavy lifting.

Who is more likely to get it

• Men 40 to 60

Diagnosis

A clinician asks about your symptoms and may order tests.

The exam

A physical exam.

Tests

Tests, if needed:

• MRI:

Treatment

Treatment depends on the cause and how severe it is.

Self-care

• Ice
• Rest

Medicines

Medicines that may help:

OwieClear doesn't give doses: follow the label or your healthcare professional. Medicine names here are examples, not a full list.

Which doctor treats this

• Urgent care or the ER can treat it first. For minor problems, your primary care provider can help.
• They may send you to an orthopedist (bone and joint doctor) or a sports medicine doctor.
• A physical therapist can help with exercises to rebuild strength and motion.

Back to school, work, or sports

• School or desk work is often OK within days. Jobs with lifting may need light duty for a while.
• Go back to sports only when your doctor says it's OK and you have full motion and strength without pain.

Outlook

Outlook depends on the cause; early care helps.

Getting ready for your visit

Bring a list of your symptoms and medicines.

What to bring

• A list of your medicines and supplements
• Notes on when symptoms started and what makes them better or worse

Questions to ask

• What's causing this?
• What treatment do you recommend?

Research studies

Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.

Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on Biceps or triceps tendon tear