A distal biceps tendon rupture happens when the tendon that connects your biceps muscle to your forearm tears near your elbow. This injury can happen if you lift something heavy or if your arm experiences a sudden, strong force. Sometimes this is a sports injury, though it can also occur in other settings. When the distal biceps tendon tears, it can cause pain, weakness and difficulty using your arm. Your risk of sustaining a distal biceps tendon rupture may depend on factors such as your age, gender and lifestyle. Over 95% of people who sustain distal biceps tendon ruptures are male, research says. These injuries usually occur in people who are 35-54 years old. In some cases, surgery is necessary to make a full recovery. Whether you need surgery or not, physical therapy can play a key role in the recovery process.
Physical therapy can help you regain strength, movement and function in your arm. When you get PT treatment, a licensed physical therapist will guide you through a step-by-step recovery plan. They will work to make sure you heal properly and reach a point where you can safely return to your regular daily activities. Physical therapy treatment typically involves multiple effective, evidence-driven techniques. Learning about these techniques can help you get an idea of what to expect on your recovery journey.
Key ways PT can address your distal biceps tendon rupture
- Reducing pain and swelling — Biceps tendon ruptures often need surgery. After surgery on your biceps tendon, your arm may be swollen and painful. Physical therapy can help reduce swelling and make your pain more manageable. Your physical therapist may teach you gentle exercises intended to improve blood flow and speed up healing. They may also use hands-on techniques to help relax tight muscles. Pain management is important because it allows you to start moving your arm without too much discomfort.
- Restoring arm movement — After a distal biceps tendon rupture, you may have trouble moving your arm. A medical professional may even advise keeping your arm in a brace or sling to protect it. While this can keep your tendon safe during recovery, it can also make your elbow and forearm stiff. Physical therapy can help reduce this stiffness with safe stretches. Your physical therapist may assist you with some stretches and teach you other stretches that you can do on your own. Regaining movement takes time. With the right exercises, though, you can safely work to restore flexibility and function.
- Rebuilding biceps strength — Once your tendon starts healing, you will need to rebuild strength in your biceps and other arm muscles. Your physical therapist might start you off with gentle, low-resistance exercises. As you progress in treatment, you may be able to incorporate light weights. Your physical therapist can help you adjust your exercise regimen according to your changing needs and capabilities. By building strength step by step, you can gradually return to your typical daily tasks without risking another injury.
Get evidence-based treatment for your distal biceps tendon rupture at REPAIR SI
REPAIR SI is here to support you through your biceps injury recovery. Whether you’re looking for a nonsurgical approach or postsurgical rehab, we can help you manage your symptoms and work toward long-term healing.
Contact our team today for more information about how PT helps with injury recovery or to schedule an initial appointment.