Painlink

Muscle · Arm · Biceps brachii

Biceps pain

Common at this spot

Ordered by how common, not by search volume.

  1. Biceps tendinitis

    A throb at the front of the shoulder that worsens when you bend or lift the arm

    Why it happens

    A tendon swells after an injury — here, the biceps tendon at the front of the shoulder. It comes from sudden movements or repeated exercise such as running, jumping, or throwing, and from repeating the same motion with poor form or technique.

    How it feels

    • Pain in the tendon that gets worse when you move
    • Trouble moving that joint
    • A grating or crackling feeling when the tendon moves
    • Swelling, sometimes with heat or redness

    How long it usually lasts

    Mild tendonitis should feel better within 2 to 3 weeks.

    When to see a doctor

    See a doctor if it has not improved after a few weeks. Get urgent advice if the pain is severe or you think the tendon has ruptured.

    Source: NHS (UK)

  2. Biceps tendon rupture

    A pop, then the muscle bunches lower down and strength drops

  3. Biceps delayed-onset muscle soreness

    A day or two after training the arm aches even just straightening it

  4. Biceps strain

    The front of the arm pulls when bending and is tender to press

    Get help right away if

    Call emergency services or go to A&E if you heard a crack when it happened, if the injured part has changed shape, if it has turned blue or grey, or if it feels numb.

    Why it happens

    Something has been overstretched or torn — here, the biceps at the front of the upper arm. It happens when you overstretch or twist, and more easily if you did not warm up or it was already tired.

    How it feels

    • Pain, tenderness, or weakness
    • Swelling or bruising
    • Muscle cramping or spasms
    • You cannot put weight on it or use it normally

    How long it usually lasts

    Most feel better after about 2 weeks. Avoid heavy exercise such as running for up to 8 weeks.

    When to see a doctor

    Get advice if severe pain is getting worse, if swelling or bruising is bad or worsening, if you cannot put weight on it or move it, or if you have a high temperature or feel shivery (that can mean infection).

    Source: NHS (UK)

  5. Upper arm contusion

    The struck area swells, bruises, and hurts when pressed

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