When it comes to treating long-head biceps tendinopathy, a condition characterized by inflammation or injury to the tendon that attaches the biceps muscle to the shoulder, there are several approaches that can be effective. Here are 10 of the best ways to treat long-head biceps tendinopathy:
1. Rest: Give your affected arm and shoulder proper rest to allow the tendon to heal. Avoid activities that worsen the pain or strain the biceps tendon.
2. Physiotherapy: Consult a physiotherapist who specializes in shoulder rehabilitation. They can provide exercises and techniques to strengthen the surrounding muscles and improve flexibility, helping to alleviate the strain on the biceps tendon.
3. Cold and heat: Applying cold packs or ice to the affected area can help reduce inflammation and pain. Heat, such as warm compresses or hot showers, can improve blood circulation and promote healing.
4. Massage: Deep tissue massage or myofascial release techniques can help alleviate muscle tension, reduce pain, and promote healing. A registered massage therapist (RMT) experienced in treating tendon injuries can be beneficial.
5. Chiropractic care: Some chiropractic doctors specialize in treating shoulder injuries and may use techniques like joint manipulation, mobilization, or soft tissue treatments to address biceps tendinopathy. Consult a qualified chiropractor with experience in this area.
6. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs): Over-the-counter medications like ibuprofen or naproxen can help reduce pain and inflammation. Consult a healthcare professional before taking any medication, especially if you have any underlying health conditions.
7. Physical modalities: Certain physical modalities, such as ultrasound or electrical stimulation, may be used in conjunction with other treatments to promote healing and alleviate pain.
8. Correcting biomechanical factors: Working with a physiotherapist or movement specialist can help identify and correct any biomechanical issues or faulty movement patterns that may contribute to biceps tendinopathy. Proper posture and body mechanics are crucial for long-term recovery.
9. Eccentric exercises: Eccentric exercises involve lengthening the muscle while it’s under tension. A physiotherapist can guide you on specific eccentric exercises for the biceps tendon, which have been shown to be beneficial for tendinopathies.
10. Corticosteroid injections or surgery: In more severe cases that don’t respond to conservative treatments, a healthcare professional may consider corticosteroid injections to reduce inflammation. Surgery, such as tenodesis or tenotomy, may be recommended if other treatments fail to provide relief.
Remember, it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional, such as a sports medicine physician or an orthopedic specialist, to properly diagnose your condition and develop an individualized treatment plan based on your specific needs. They can help determine the most suitable combination of treatments, including physiotherapy, massage, or chiropractic care, to treat your long-head biceps tendinopathy.
If you have any questions or would like to explore further, please book a free, no-charge online appointment with either myself, Nitin Nair, BPT, R/TRO DIP, PT, or another Kitchener physiotherapy practitioner at CARESPACE. We are happy to listen and are here to help!
