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Biceps tenodesis

Biceps tenodesis is a surgical procedure that can help alleviate pain and instability in the shoulder caused by problems with the biceps tendon. If non-surgical treatments haven’t improved your symptoms, this procedure may be an effective way to reduce discomfort and improve your shoulder function.

At Southwest Shoulder, our team of skilled surgeons specializes in biceps tenodesis. With years of experience and advanced training in this procedure, we are dedicated to providing personalized care to alleviate your shoulder pain and restore your mobility. 

Our expertise ensures you receive the highest quality treatment tailored to your specific needs, helping you regain strength and return to the activities you love.

What Is

The Biceps Tendon?

The biceps tendon is a strong, cord-like structure that connects the biceps muscle in the upper arm to the shoulder. It starts as two separate tendons at the top of the shoulder joint, called the long head and short head. 

These two tendons come together to form a single tendon that attaches the biceps muscle to the forearm bone. The biceps tendon plays a vital role in helping you move your arm, especially when you bend your elbow or rotate your forearm to turn your palm up or down.

It also helps to keep the shoulder joint stable. Sometimes, the biceps tendon can become irritated, inflamed, or even torn due to injury, overuse, or age-related changes. 

When this happens, it can cause pain, weakness, and other symptoms in the shoulder and upper arm. Treatment options depend on the severity of the problem but may include rest, medications, physical therapy, or surgery.

What Is

Biceps Tenodesis Surgery?

Biceps tenodesis surgery is a procedure to treat problems with the biceps tendon in the shoulder. During the procedure, your surgeon will remove the damaged part of the biceps tendon and reattach the remaining healthy tendon to the upper arm bone.

The procedure is usually done using small incisions and special instruments. After the procedure, the arm is placed in a sling for a few weeks to allow the tendon to heal. 

This procedure can help people return to their daily activities with less pain and better shoulder function.

What Conditions Can Biceps Tenodesis Surgery Help?

Biceps tenodesis surgery can help treat several conditions that affect the biceps tendon in the shoulder. One common problem is biceps tendinitis, which is an inflammation of the tendon that causes pain and tenderness in the front of the shoulder. 

This can happen due to overuse, repetitive arm movements, or age-related changes in the tendon. Another condition that can benefit from biceps tenodesis surgery is a biceps tendon tear. 

This can be a partial or complete tear that occurs due to a sudden injury or gradual wear and tear. Symptoms may include severe pain, weakness, and a bulge in the upper arm.

Biceps tenodesis surgery can also help address SLAP (superior labral tear from anterior to posterior) lesions, which are injuries to the labrum, a ring of cartilage that surrounds the shoulder socket. When these injuries involve the attachment of the biceps tendon, they can cause deep shoulder pain, clicking, and instability.

Biceps tenodesis is often recommended when the biceps tendon is severely torn or damaged, and non-surgical treatments haven’t provided relief. It can help to reduce pain, improve shoulder strength and function, and prevent further damage to the tendon.

What is Recovery Like After Biceps Tenodesis Surgery?

Recovery after biceps tenodesis surgery involves a gradual process of healing and rehabilitation. Immediately after the procedure, your arm will be placed in a sling to protect the repaired tendon and keep your shoulder stable. 

You’ll likely need to wear the sling for several weeks, even while sleeping.

During this initial recovery period, you can expect some pain and swelling, which can be managed with medications prescribed by your doctor. 

It’s important to rest and avoid using your arm for any lifting or strenuous activities. As your healing progresses, you’ll start physical therapy to regain strength and range of motion in your shoulder. 

This typically begins with gentle exercises and gradually progresses to more advanced movements. Physical therapy is a crucial part of the recovery process and helps ensure the best possible outcome.

Most people can return to light activities within a few weeks, but full recovery may take several months. Your Southwest Shoulder surgeon will guide you through each stage of recovery and let you know when it’s safe to resume your normal activities.

When Can I Start Exercising or Lifting Weights After Biceps Tenodesis Surgery?

After biceps tenodesis surgery, it’s essential to give your shoulder time to heal before returning to exercise or lifting weights. In the first few weeks after surgery, your main focus will be on rest and recovery. 

You’ll need to avoid lifting anything with your operated arm and will likely be wearing a sling to keep your shoulder stable. As your pain and swelling start to subside, you’ll begin physical therapy to gradually regain strength and range of motion in your shoulder. 

Your physical therapist will guide you through a series of exercises designed to improve flexibility and prevent stiffness. These exercises will be gentle at first and will progress over time as your shoulder heals.

Most people can start doing some light exercise and activities a couple of weeks to months after surgery, but this can vary depending on individual factors such as the extent of the repair and your overall health. 

Your doctor at Southwest Shoulder and physical therapist will let you know when it’s safe to start incorporating more activity into your routine. When it comes to lifting weights or doing resistance exercises, you’ll need to be patient.

It’s important to talk with your doctor to determine when it is appropriate for you to return to your typical exercise routine.

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