Trigger Point Release - Biceps/Pec Minor Muscle Strain
Biceps Muscle
Trigger Point Release - Biceps Muscle Strain / Tendinitis
Bicipital Tendinitis
Bicipital tendinitis results from irritation and inflammation to the biceps brachii tendon, which lies on the front of the shoulder and allows elbow flexion and supination of the forearm.
Overuse can lead to inflammation and is a common affliction in golfers, weightlifters, rowers and those engaged in throwing sports.
Irritation of the tendon of the long head of biceps occurs as it moves up and down in the intertubercular (bicipital) groove of the humerus. Inflammation can be to the tendon itself or to the tendon sheath or paratenons.
The musculo-tendinous junction of biceps brachii is highly susceptible to injuries brought on by overuse, particularly following repetitive lifting activities.
Cause of Injury
Poor technique, particularly in weightlifting. Sudden increase in duration or intensity of training. Shoulder impingement syndrome.
Signs and Symptoms
Pain over the bicipital groove when the tendon is passively stretched and during resisted supination and elbow flexion. Pain and tenderness along the tendon length. Stiffness following exercise.
Trigger Points
Trigger points in the biceps are commonly involved in this injury. Where the injury has occurred as a result of trauma or overuse, additional triggers may become active as part of the body's natural "protect and defend" mechanism.
These triggers and their affect on delivering pain signals and reducing range of movement are sometimes referred to as "holding patterns".
Complications if Left Unattended
Bicipital tendinitis, left without care and treatment, generally worsens as the biceps brachii tendon becomes increasingly irritated and inflamed. Movement and the ability to perform athletically without pain will be further hampered. Exercising without adequate healing and rehabilitation can lead to tearing of the tendon and tendon degeneration over time.
Immediate Treatment
RICER regimen to relieve painful inflammation. Anti-inflammatory and analgesic medication. Then heat to promote blood flow and healing.
Rehabilitation and Prevention
The condition is self-limiting given rest and minimal medical attention. Following full recovery, exercises directed at improving flexibility, proprioception and strength may be undertaken. Thorough warm-up and stretching exercises and a steady athletic regimen that avoids sudden, unprepared increases in activity can help avoid this injury, as can attention to proper sports technique.
Long-Term Prognosis
A full return to athletic activity may generally be expected given adequate time for tendon recovery and reduction of inflammation. However, the injury frequently recurs. Surgery is generally not required. Corticosteroid injections are sometimes used to reduce pain, though they must be applied cautiously as they increase the risk of tendon rupture.
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Disclaimer
The information in this article is intended for educational purposes within the context of continuing education for massage therapists, continuing education for athletic trainers, continuing education for physical therapists, continuing education for chiropractors, and continuing education for rehabilitation professionals. It is not a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Although every effort has been made to ensure accuracy and reflect current understanding at the time of publication, practitioners must always work within the legal scope of their professional practice and follow all regional regulatory guidelines.
Hands-on techniques and clinical applications described in this material should only be performed by appropriately trained and licensed professionals. Individuals experiencing pain or symptoms should be referred to a qualified healthcare provider for assessment. Niel Asher Education is not responsible for any injury, loss, or damage resulting from the use or misuse of the information provided in this content.
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