Occupational Therapy for Bicep Tendon Injuries
The biceps muscle runs down from the top of the shoulder to the elbow’s tip on the frontal armor. Two tendons connect the upper part of the bicep to the top of the shoulder. Those are the distal bicep tendon, the lower tendon that attaches to a small part of the forearm. The other tendon is the proximal tendon, which is attached to the top of the shoulder. Typically, when one suffers a bicep tendon injury, it usually is a strain or tears on one of the two tendons.
If you have recently injured your bicep or are just dealing with a nagging injury, you should consider going for occupational therapy in Hauppauge.
You may be thinking to yourself if you even have a bicep tendon injury. To have an idea, here are some of the likely symptoms:
- Sharp pain in the upper arm or elbow
- A “pop” at the shoulder or elbow
- Bruising and swelling at the sight of the pain
- Weakness/numbness running up and down the arm
- Muscle Spasms
- A bulging spot located on your bicep.
Your physician will evaluate the source of the problem and formulate a unique plan of treatment so that you not only stop experiencing pain but improve your mobility and range of motion as well. You can also expect some strength exercises, as your bicep is one of the major muscles in your upper extremities that is a source of strength.
An injury to your bicep often leads to other points of pain in the body. Specifically, in the shoulder and wrist, they are the two major body parts directly connected to the bicep. When one experiences tendonitis in the bicep, it can often perpetuate into your other extremities if left untreated. Don’t worry too much about this. As once you start your treatment plan, you are guaranteed to minimize and even eliminate the source of pain.
If the tendon has been completely torn or ruptured, you will most likely need surgery. If you are experiencing tendonitis, then you will most likely be prescribed some form of occupational therapy. Incorporated into your healing process is the famous RICE method.
Rest: Rest and protect the injured area, typically taking a break from any activity that causes you pain and/or soreness.
Ice:
- Cool the tender area with a cool compress.
- Apply with an ice or cold pack for 10-15 minutes, three or more times a day.
- After swelling has gone down, apply heat to the same spot.
- Do not directly apply ice or cold packs on the skin; layer it first with a washcloth.
Compression: Wrapping the injured area with an elastic bandage. Typically medical tape, gauzes, etc. Loosen the bandage if too tight; if you are experiencing numbness, tingling, increased pain, then the bandage is too tight and needs to be loosened.
Elevation: Elevate the injured arm with pillows while applying ice. Try to raise your arm above your heart to help reduce swelling.
Your physician will most likely come up with an at-home routine for you to do while not receiving occupational therapy in Hauppauge. Some of these at-home workouts you are likely to do include:
- Bicep curls: stand up straight and hold a 5-9 pound weight in your hand. Bend your elbow and bring your hand toward your shoulder. Hold for five seconds at the top of your shoulder and slowly return your hand to the starting position. Repeat this exercise 8-12 times.
- Signal-arm shoulder flexion: Stand with your injured arm hanging down on your side. Keep your arm straight as you bring your arm to the ceiling. Hold and squeeze lightly for 5 seconds. As you attempt this exercise more, it will get easier as it is sure to increase the weight on your arm.
Receive occupational therapy in Hauppauge, and you can be well on your way to increasing your strength, mobility, and flexibility in your arm! Contact East End Occupational Therapy today to learn all the ways we can help you.
