Are You at Risk for a Biceps Tendon Injury?
Published: Aug 05, 2024
Biceps tendon injuries can happen to anyone, but certain factors can increase your risk. Knowing these risk factors can help you take steps to protect your tendons and maintain your shoulder health.
Contents
Age and Degeneration: The Inevitable Factors
As we age, our tendons naturally degenerate, making them more prone to injury. This is why biceps tendon injuries are more common in older adults. Degenerative changes can start as early as middle age, leading to a gradual weakening of the tendon over time. While we can't stop aging, understanding this risk can help us be more mindful of our shoulder health as we get older.
Occupation and Activities: The Repetitive Strain
Certain occupations and activities put more stress on the biceps tendon. Jobs or hobbies that involve frequent lifting, pulling, or overhead movements can increase your risk. This includes occupations like construction work, painting, or swimming. Athletes in sports like baseball, tennis, or weightlifting are also at higher risk due to the repetitive arm motions involved. If your work or hobbies involve these movements, it's important to use proper form and take regular breaks.
Other Health Factors: The Hidden Influences
Several health-related factors can contribute to biceps tendon injuries. Smoking has been linked to compromised blood flow in tendons, increasing the risk of injury. High body mass index (BMI) and conditions that cause chronic inflammation, like rheumatoid arthritis, can also increase your risk. Certain medications, including some antibiotics and corticosteroids, may weaken tendons over time.
Frequently Asked Questions
While not all injuries are preventable, proper form and gradual increases in activity can help.
Some studies suggest men may be at higher risk, particularly for distal biceps tendon ruptures.
Yes, prior shoulder injuries or conditions like rotator cuff tears can increase your risk.
Athletes in certain sports may have a higher risk due to repetitive arm motions.
Key Takeaways
Understanding your risk factors for biceps tendon injuries empowers you to take proactive steps in maintaining your shoulder health.
Concerned about your risk for biceps tendon injuries? Consider discussing your individual risk factors and prevention strategies with Doctronic.Related Articles
References
Clayton RA, Court-Brown CM. The epidemiology of musculoskeletal tendinous and ligamentous injuries. Injury 2008; 39:1338.
Kelly MP, Perkinson SG, Ablove RH, Tueting JL. Distal Biceps Tendon Ruptures: An Epidemiological Analysis Using a Large Population Database. Am J Sports Med 2015; 43:2012.
Always discuss health information with your healthcare provider.