A sudden sharp pain in the upper arm or shoulder, followed by a visible bulge or loss of strength, is often a sign of a proximal biceps tendon rupture.
This injury occurs when the tendon that connects the biceps muscle to the shoulder tears, partially or completely detaching from the bone.
At Dr. Burke Orthopedics, we specialize in diagnosing and treating tendon injuries that affect both the shoulder and upper arm.
Led by Dr. Robert L. Burke, a board-certified orthopedic surgeon, our team provides personalized care to help patients across Pearland, Houston, Friendswood, and Southeast Texas regain strength, motion, and confidence after a biceps tendon rupture.
Understanding a Proximal Biceps Tendon Rupture
The biceps muscle has two tendons that attach it to the shoulder:
A proximal rupture typically involves the long head of the biceps tendon tearing near the shoulder joint. This may happen suddenly during heavy lifting, a fall, or even with normal activity in individuals with prior tendon degeneration.
The injury often causes a “Popeye deformity”—a visible bulge in the upper arm as the torn muscle retracts downward
Risk Factors:
Understanding these factors helps Dr. Burke personalize a prevention and recovery strategy tailored to your lifestyle.
A proximal biceps tendon rupture usually presents with dramatic but specific symptoms.
Most common signs include:
Pain often subsides after the initial tear, but weakness and cosmetic changes may persist without treatment.
At Dr. Burke Orthopedics, Dr. Robert L. Burke conducts a detailed assessment to confirm the diagnosis and determine if surgery is necessary.
Diagnostic process includes:
Physical examination:
Imaging:
A precise diagnosis ensures an individualized treatment plan for optimal recovery.
Treatment depends on the patient’s activity level, degree of tendon damage, and strength goals.
Many partial ruptures and low-demand patients can recover without surgery, while active individuals often benefit from surgical repair.
Non-Surgical Treatments
For patients with minimal functional loss or partial tears, conservative care can yield strong results.
Non-surgical options include:
Many patients regain comfort and mobility within 4–6 weeks of guided therapy.
Surgical Treatments
If the rupture is complete or significantly affects function, Dr. Burke may recommend surgical repair to restore the tendon’s normal position and strength.
Surgical options include:
Surgical options:
May be considered in rare cases where additional soft-tissue stabilization is required.
Rehabilitation Focuses:
Most patients return to normal activity within 3–6 months, with excellent long-term results when therapy is followed closely.
With proper treatment and ongoing foot care, most patients fully recover from plantar fasciitis and resume normal activity.
Prevention tips:
Dr. Burke emphasizes long-term maintenance to keep shoulders healthy and strong.
You should schedule an appointment with Dr. Burke Orthopedics if you experience:
Prompt orthopedic evaluation ensures faster recovery and prevents complications.
At Dr. Burke Orthopedics, we believe that no patient should live with preventable weakness or pain.
Whether your biceps tendon injury is new or chronic, our team provides advanced, personalized treatment to help you return to the activities you love — safely and confidently.
Call (713) 436-3488 or Request an Appointment Online
Serving Pearland, Houston, Friendswood, and Southeast Texas — where orthopedic expertise meets compassionate care.
