Biceps tendinitis and subluxation

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic Surgery
• Sports Medicine
• Anatomy

Background:

• The long head of the biceps tendon's role in shoulder pain and function has been debated since the 17th century.
• Commonly termed tendinitis, overuse injuries often show degenerative changes rather than inflammation.
• Bicipital tendinitis is frequently linked to subacromial impingement but can also arise from instability.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the diagnosis and treatment of long head of the biceps tendon disorders.
• To highlight the evolving understanding of the biceps tendon's function as a glenohumeral stabilizer.
• To discuss current and developing treatment strategies for biceps tendon pathology.

Main Methods:

• Review of historical and current literature on biceps tendon pathology.
• Discussion of diagnostic methods including clinical evaluation and imaging.
• Analysis of arthroscopic findings and treatment outcomes.

Main Results:

• Degenerative changes, not inflammation, are typical in overuse biceps tendon injuries.
• The biceps tendon plays a significant role in stabilizing the glenohumeral joint.
• Arthroscopic evaluation enhances diagnosis and treatment of associated shoulder pathology.

Conclusions:

• Accurate diagnosis of biceps tendon disorders requires thorough history, physical exam, and imaging.
• The stabilizing role of the biceps tendon is crucial and should guide treatment.
• Current treatment emphasizes individualized approaches and preservation of the biceps-labral complex over routine tenodesis.