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Long Head of Biceps Tendinitis

Long head of biceps tendinitis is a condition characterised by inflammation or irritation of the long head of the biceps tendon, which runs along the front of the upper arm and attaches to the shoulder joint. This tendon plays a critical role in shoulder stability and upper arm movement. When inflamed, it can cause significant pain and restrict mobility, particularly with lifting or overhead movements.

At RAD Clinics, we provide targeted treatment for long head of biceps tendinitis using ultrasound-guided cortisone injections to relieve pain, reduce inflammation, and restore function.

Causes of Long Head of Biceps Tendinitis

Overuse and repetitive activities: Overhead sports (such as swimming, tennis, and weightlifting) and repetitive motions can strain the tendon, leading to inflammation.
Shoulder instability: Shoulder joint laxity or dislocations can contribute to biceps tendinitis by overloading the tendon.
Rotator cuff pathology: Conditions like rotator cuff tears or impingement can cause secondary inflammation of the biceps tendon.
Age-related degeneration: Over time, wear and tear can cause the tendon to weaken, increasing the risk of tendinitis, especially in individuals over 40.

Symptoms of Long Head of Biceps Tendinitis

Patients with long head of biceps tendinitis often experience the following symptoms:

Pain at the front of the shoulder: Discomfort may be sharp or aching and can be triggered by lifting, reaching, or overhead activities.
Tenderness in the bicipital groove: Palpating the front of the shoulder may elicit pain, indicating inflammation in the tendon.
Weakness in shoulder movements: Patients often report difficulty performing activities that require lifting or pushing.
Clicking or snapping sensation: Some patients experience a snapping sensation in the shoulder due to tendon instability within the bicipital groove.

Anatomy of the Long Head of Biceps Tendon

The long head of the biceps tendon is one of two tendons that connect the biceps muscle to the bones in the shoulder. The long head passes through the bicipital groove, a narrow groove at the top of the humerus (upper arm bone), and attaches to the top of the glenoid, part of the shoulder blade.

This tendon helps stabilise the shoulder and assists with arm movements such as lifting, rotating, and bending the elbow. Due to its position and function, the long head of the biceps tendon is vulnerable to wear and tear, particularly in individuals who engage in repetitive overhead activities like throwing, swimming, or lifting weights.

Diagnosis at RAD Clinics

At RAD Clinics, our shoulder specialists utilise advanced diagnostic techniques to confirm the presence of long head of biceps tendinitis and rule out other potential causes of shoulder pain:

Clinical examination: We begin with a detailed examination of the shoulder, testing for tenderness along the biceps tendon, assessing range of motion, and identifying any associated shoulder instability.
Ultrasound imaging: Our clinic employs ultrasound technology to visualise the biceps tendon in real time, allowing us to confirm the diagnosis and assess the degree of inflammation or degeneration. Ultrasound is highly effective in identifying tendon thickening, fluid accumulation, and any associated injuries to the rotator cuff or labrum.

Ultrasound-Guided Cortisone Injections for Long Head of Biceps Tendinitis

For patients diagnosed with long head of biceps tendinitis, ultrasound-guided cortisone injections are a highly effective, non-surgical treatment option. Cortisone, a powerful anti-inflammatory medication, is delivered precisely to the site of inflammation, providing significant pain relief and reducing swelling.

Benefits of Ultrasound-Guided Cortisone Injections

Powerful anti-inflammatory effects: Cortisone is a potent anti-inflammatory medication that works by reducing swelling and inflammation in the biceps tendon, which can relieve pain and improve shoulder mobility.
Improved function: By reducing inflammation, cortisone injections help restore normal tendon function, which improves arm strength and range of motion.
Non-surgical solution: Cortisone injections provide a minimally invasive alternative to surgery, offering relief without the risks or extended recovery time associated with more invasive procedures.
Minimised risk: The use of ultrasound imaging helps us avoid nearby structures such as blood vessels and nerves, reducing the risk of complications and ensuring a safer procedure.
Immediate visual feedback: Ultrasound provides live imaging, enabling adjustments to be made instantly for optimal results.

What to Expect During the Procedure

At RAD Clinics, we prioritise patient care and comfort during every procedure. Here’s what you can expect during an ultrasound-guided cortisone injection for long head of biceps tendinitis:

Initial assessment and preparation: Our clinician will discuss the procedure with you and explain the process in detail. The skin around the injection site will be cleaned and, if necessary, a local anaesthetic applied to numb the area.
Ultrasound guidance: Using advanced ultrasound imaging, the clinician will visualise the long head of the biceps tendon in real time. This ensures the injection is delivered accurately to the affected area.
Injection: Once the optimal site is identified, the cortisone will be injected directly into the tendon sheath. The process is typically quick, lasting only a few minutes.
Post-procedure care: After the injection, patients are often advised to rest the shoulder for a short period, although most can return to light activities soon after the procedure. Full recovery may take a few days as the cortisone begins to reduce inflammation and pain.

When to Seek Treatment

If you experience persistent shoulder pain, especially during overhead activities or lifting, it may be time to seek treatment. Early intervention with ultrasound-guided cortisone injections at RAD Clinics can help reduce pain and inflammation, allowing you to recover without the need for surgery.

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DISCLAIMER

We do not accept insurance coverage. If you wish to reimburse your fees, then please kindly check with your insurance provider prior to booking as we cannot be held responsible for any non-payments.