Biceps Rupture
What is it?
Diagnostic tool to rule in/out:
Speeds test is best used along with Yergasons test. (See Rotator cuff impingement for test description)
- Biceps rupture is a complete tear of the biceps tendon generally seen in the long head of the tendon.
- Biceps rupture generally occurs after a sudden contraction of the biceps with resistance to flexion and supination of the forearm. Degeneration is usually a precursor to the rupture especially in the long head of the biceps which usually occurs in adults 40-60 yrs of age with a history of recurrent shoulder problems. Those who do a lot of overhead activity, smoke, use corticosteroids, and males are at greater risk.
- Patients may describe pain in the anterior shoulder and when the rupture happened it most would be associated with a traumatic event in which there was a pop heard. Overhead activities make the pain increase. The patient may have had history of rotator cuff tendinopathy and or shoulder impingement causing degeneration. Distal tears of the biceps tendon causes a Popeye deformity.
Diagnostic tool to rule in/out:
Speeds test is best used along with Yergasons test. (See Rotator cuff impingement for test description)