Biceps Tendon Pain: Symptoms, Causes & How Physiotherapy May Help
Pain at the front of the shoulder or upper arm can make everyday activities—such as lifting, reaching overhead, carrying groceries, or participating in sports—more difficult. One possible cause is biceps tendon pain, often referred to as biceps tendonitis. Healthcare providers now commonly use the term biceps tendinopathy, as tendon pain is not always caused by inflammation.
Physiotherapy can play an important role in managing biceps tendon pain by helping improve shoulder function, reduce pain, and support a gradual return to work, sport, and daily activities. In some cases, your physiotherapist may also recommend kinesiology taping as part of an individualized treatment plan.
What Is Biceps Tendinopathy?
The biceps muscle has two tendons that attach it to the shoulder and one tendon that attaches it near the elbow. The tendon most commonly associated with shoulder pain is the long head of the biceps tendon, which travels through the front of the shoulder.
Biceps tendinopathy refers to changes within the tendon that may develop over time or following increased physical demands. Although many people still use the term biceps tendonitis, research has shown that not all tendon pain is caused by inflammation, which is why the term tendinopathy is now more commonly used.
What Causes Biceps Tendon Pain?
Biceps tendon pain may develop gradually or occur after an injury. Common contributing factors include:
- Repetitive overhead activities
- Throwing sports, swimming, golf, tennis, and racquet sports
- Heavy lifting
- Sudden increases in activity or training
- Age-related changes within the tendon
- Rotator cuff injuries or weakness
- Shoulder instability or altered shoulder mechanics
In many cases, biceps tendon pain occurs alongside other shoulder conditions rather than in isolation.
Common Symptoms
Symptoms vary between individuals but may include:
- Pain at the front of the shoulder
- Tenderness over the biceps tendon
- Pain when reaching overhead or behind your back
- Discomfort when lifting or carrying objects
- Pain during throwing or racquet sports
- Shoulder weakness due to pain
- Difficulty sleeping on the affected shoulder
- A clicking or catching sensation during certain movements in some cases
Because several shoulder conditions can cause similar symptoms, a thorough assessment is important to determine the source of your pain.
How Is It Diagnosed?
A physiotherapist will complete a comprehensive assessment that may include:
- Discussing your symptoms and medical history
- Assessing shoulder movement and strength
- Evaluating posture and shoulder mechanics
- Performing specific clinical tests to identify structures contributing to your symptoms
If necessary, your physician or nurse practitioner may recommend diagnostic imaging, such as an ultrasound or MRI, to provide additional information.
How Can Physiotherapy Help?
Treatment is individualized based on your symptoms, goals, and the findings of your assessment.
Your physiotherapy treatment plan may include:
- Education about your condition
- Activity modification during painful flare-ups
- Progressive strengthening exercises
- Mobility exercises to improve shoulder movement
- Manual therapy, when appropriate
- Guidance on returning to work, sport, or recreation
- Advice on managing symptoms at home
- Kinesiology taping, if appropriate for your condition
Exercise-based rehabilitation is considered one of the primary treatments for most tendon conditions and is often combined with other treatment strategies.
What Is Kinesiology Taping?
Kinesiology tape is a flexible, elastic therapeutic tape designed to move with your body while allowing normal shoulder movement.
Depending on your individual presentation, your physiotherapist may recommend kinesiology taping to:
- Provide temporary support during activity
- Improve comfort with certain movements
- Increase awareness of shoulder and arm position (proprioception)
- Complement an active rehabilitation program
Research suggests that kinesiology taping may provide short-term improvements in pain or function for some people with shoulder conditions. However, responses vary between individuals, and taping is generally considered an adjunct to exercise and rehabilitation rather than a stand-alone treatment.
Will I Need Surgery?
Most people with biceps tendinopathy improve with conservative management and do not require surgery.
If symptoms persist despite appropriate treatment, your physician or orthopedic specialist may discuss additional treatment options. Recommendations depend on your symptoms, imaging findings, functional limitations, and response to previous care.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can physiotherapy help biceps tendon pain? Physiotherapy may help improve shoulder mobility, strength, and function while helping you manage pain. Your treatment plan will be tailored to your individual needs and goals.
Can I continue exercising? Many people are able to remain active while recovering from biceps tendon pain, although temporary modifications to certain activities may be recommended. Your physiotherapist can advise you on exercises that are appropriate for your stage of recovery.
Does kinesiology taping work for biceps tendon pain? Some individuals find kinesiology taping helpful for improving comfort during daily activities or exercise. While research suggests it may provide short-term benefits for some people, it is generally most effective when used alongside an individualized rehabilitation program.
When Should You Seek Medical Attention?
You should seek prompt medical assessment if you experience:
- Sudden severe pain following a lifting injury or fall
- A noticeable bulge in the upper arm after feeling or hearing a “pop”
- Significant weakness in the shoulder or elbow
- An inability to lift your arm following trauma
- Redness, warmth, swelling, or fever
These symptoms may indicate a more serious injury or condition requiring further medical evaluation.
The Bottom Line
Biceps tendon pain is a common shoulder condition that can affect work, recreation, sports, and everyday activities. Because it often occurs alongside other shoulder conditions, an individualized assessment is important for determining the factors contributing to your symptoms.
Physiotherapy may help improve shoulder movement, build strength, reduce pain, and support your return to the activities that are important to you. Depending on your needs, kinesiology taping may also be recommended as one component of a comprehensive rehabilitation program.
If you’re experiencing persistent pain at the front of your shoulder or upper arm, consider booking an assessment with a physiotherapist to discuss treatment options that are appropriate for your individual needs.
Editorial & Medical Disclaimer
This article has been prepared and reviewed by qualified healthcare professionals affiliated with InHome Physical Therapy, including licensed physiotherapists and/or certified kinesiologists, where appropriate. Our clinicians are thoroughly vetted and maintain the licensing, certifications, insurance, and professional standing required to practice within their respective provinces.
The information provided is intended for educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice, a diagnosis, or a substitute for an individualized assessment by a qualified healthcare professional. We encourage readers to make informed healthcare decisions based on their own circumstances.
If you have questions about your condition or our services, we welcome you to contact InHome Physical Therapy. General inquiries are always free of charge, and all fees associated with assessments or treatment will be discussed before any services are provided.
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