This is where the bicep muscle attaches to the radius (forearm bone). It is typically an overuse injury caused by repetitive flexing of the elbow or rotating the forearm (like using a screwdriver).
The symptoms are localized to the front of the elbow (the antecubital fossa).
Deep Ache: A persistent ache in the front of the elbow.
Pain with Rotation: Increased pain when turning the palm up (supination) or down, or when lifting objects with the palm facing up.
Tenderness: Sensitivity when pressing on the area where the tendon meets the forearm bone.
Weakness: A noticeable decrease in strength when performing curling motions.
Physical Exam
X-ray: Used to evaluate for calcium deposits and rule out other diagnoses.
MRI: This is the most effective way to see if the tendon is simply inflamed (tendinitis) or if there are small "partial tears" within the tissue.
Ultrasound: A dynamic scan that allows the doctor to see the tendon moving in real-time to check for fraying or fluid buildup (tenosynovitis).
Distal bicep tendinitis usually responds well to conservative care, though it can be slow to heal due to the constant use of our hands and arms.
Iontophoresis: A specialized physical therapy treatment that uses a mild electrical current to deliver anti-inflammatory medicine through the skin directly to the tendon.
Physical Therapy
Surgery: Rarely needed for tendinitis, but if the tendon is severely degenerated or partially torn, a distal bicep repair may be performed to debride the damaged tissue.