A biceps tendon tear can often happen suddenly, usually when trying to lift something heavy. If the tendon tears, many people experience a distinct popping sound, which might even be heard by those nearby. While this can be followed by intense pain, sometimes the pain is minimal. You might feel weakness in the arm instead. This lack of severe pain can make some people think the injury isn’t serious, delaying medical care for weeks.

While the pain may subside quickly and movement of the elbow is possible, a biceps tendon tear is a potentially serious medical problem and needs to be evaluated by an orthopedic surgeon to ensure best results.

In some cases, mild elbow or biceps pain might occur for a few weeks before the tendon finally ruptures. This suggests that the tendon has been partially tearing over time. Each partial tear weakens the tendon. Think of it like a thick rope made of many smaller fibers. As some fibers break, the rope weakens, putting more strain on the remaining fibers, making them more prone to tearing.

Once this process begins, continued stress on the tendon leads to further damage, often ending in a full rupture. However, early treatment can make a significant difference. Protective bracing and regenerative therapies, like Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) injections, can help the tendon heal and prevent a complete tear.

Common causes of biceps tendon ruptures include:

• Weighted pull-ups
• High-weight biceps curls (watch it happen)
• Moving heavy furniture or appliances
• Falling and using your arm to break the fall

This injury is most common in men between the ages of 30 and 60. There is some speculation that testosterone levels may play a role in increasing the risk of this type of injury.

If you suspect a biceps tendon injury, even if the pain is mild, it’s crucial to seek medical attention. Delaying treatment can lead to further damage and a more complex recovery. A proper evaluation will determine the extent of the injury and allow you to start appropriate treatment early, optimizing your chances of a full recovery.

Ideally, a complete rupture of the biceps tendon should be surgically repaired within the first 3 weeks after injury. Delayed repairs can be performed but may lead to limited motion and incomplete recovery of strength in the injured arm.