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How do you treat a torn bicep at home?
Many people with a biceps tendon tear can still function well. They may only need simple treatments, like icing, aspirin or ibuprofen (Advil), and rest. Physical therapy and cortisone injections may also help.
How do you treat a bicep tear?
Treatment recommendations may include:
- Rest. Avoid heavy lifting and overhead activities to relieve pain and limit swelling.
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications. Drugs like ibuprofen and naproxen reduce pain and swelling.
- Physical therapy.
Should you wrap a torn bicep?
I advise patients to avoid compression because it can be difficult to wrap the shoulder and if you wrap the elbow incorrectly, it can result in hand swelling.
Can you lift weights with a torn bicep?
After we give the biceps tendon enough time to heal to the radius bone you start physical therapy. Once you have completed your therapy, most patients are capable of returning to full activities — including sports, jobs with heavy lifting, and weight lifting.
How do you not tear your bicep?
To prevent a biceps tendon rupture, individuals should:
- Maintain proper strength in the shoulder, elbow, and forearm.
- Avoid repetitive overhead lifting and general overuse of the shoulder, such as performing forceful pushing or pulling activities, or lifting objects that are simply too heavy.
How do you know if you’ve torn your bicep?
Other signs that you may have torn a biceps tendon can include:
- Sharp pain at the shoulder or elbow.
- A bruise that appears on the upper arm or forearm near the elbow.
- A feeling of weakness in the shoulder or elbow.
- Trouble rotating your arm from a “palm down” to a “palm up” position.
How long can you wait to repair a torn bicep?
It takes about 3 to 4 months for your biceps muscle to heal. You may be able to do easier daily activities in 2 to 3 weeks, as long as you don’t use your injured arm.