by Comp Ortho | Nov 20, 2023 | pain, Spine, Wellness
“Oh, my aching back!” Everyone has uttered these words at some point, in response to the sharp, sudden pain that comes with back spasms.
This article will explore the causes of back spasms, their symptoms and, most importantly, effective treatments. Whether you’re experiencing your first spasm or seeking ways to prevent future episodes, understanding the triggers and what to do is key.
What is a back spasm?
According to the Cleveland Clinic, back spasms can range from tiny twinges to crippling contractions that leave you unable to move. They occur when the muscles in your back contract involuntarily and intensely. The sensation can vary widely from person to person. For some, it may come on as a mild, dull ache or an occasional twitch; for others, it can escalate into sharp, excruciating pain that becomes debilitating.
What causes back spasms?
Many factors can contribute to these sudden and often painful muscle contractions. Understanding the underlying triggers is essential in both preventing and addressing back spasms.
The Cleveland Clinic provides this list of common back spasm causes.
- Insufficient muscle usage — Prolonged periods of sitting, poor posture, lack of exercise and underutilizing back and abdominal muscles can result in weakness, making the muscles prone to spasms and discomfort.
- Overexertion and excessive use of muscles — Athletes and individuals involved in heavy lifting activities may experience spasms due to muscle strain, which involves small tears in the muscle fibers, causing inflammation.
- Dietary factors — Inadequate water, potassium and calcium intake can contribute to back spasms. These essential nutrients are vital for maintaining proper muscle function and preventing imbalances that can trigger spasms.
- Mental and emotional well-being — Anxiety and stress can lead to muscle tightness, potentially resulting in spasms and discomfort.
- Traumatic incidents such as falls or car accidents — The sudden impact or force applied to the back can strain the muscles, ligaments or even the spine itself, causing pain and spasms as a protective response.
Back spasm symptoms
Back spasm symptoms are like a distress signal from your body, alerting you to underlying issues. Recognizing these symptoms is crucial in addressing and managing back spasms effectively.
The Mayo Clinic lists these symptoms:
- Back pain ranging from a muscle aching to a shooting, burning or stabbing sensation.
- Pain can radiate down a leg.
- Bending, twisting, lifting, standing or walking can make it worse.
Generally, back pain will subside after rest and home care. However, you should consult your doctor or health care provider if the pain:
- Lasts longer than a few weeks.
- Is severe and doesn’t improve with rest.
- Spreads down one or both legs, especially if the pain goes below the knee.
- Causes weakness, numbness, or tingling in one or both legs.
- Is paired with unexplained weight loss.
Seek medical attention immediately if pain causes new bowel or bladder problems, is accompanied by a fever or follows a fall, blow to the back or other injury.
Back spasm treatment
Various treatments can help alleviate the discomfort and promote healing. The Mayo Clinic notes that treatment options for back spasms may include:
- Applying ice or heat — The application of ice packs or heating pads can help reduce inflammation and soothe muscles. Cold therapy is generally recommended within the first 48 hours of a spasm, while heat therapy can be beneficial for relaxing tense muscles in the days that follow.
- Over-the-counter pain medications — Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen or naproxen sodium, can temporarily relieve back spasms by reducing pain and inflammation.
- Prescription medications — In some cases, muscle relaxants may be prescribed to help alleviate muscle tension and provide relief from severe spasms.
- Physical therapy — A physical therapist can design a personalized exercise program to strengthen the back muscles, improve flexibility and correct posture. A therapist may also utilize massage, manual therapy and electrical stimulation techniques to help manage pain and reduce spasms.
- Alternative therapies —Complementary treatments like acupuncture, chiropractic care and yoga have shown promise in relieving back spasms for some individuals. These approaches focus on improving overall well-being, promoting relaxation and reducing muscle tension. However, according to the U.S. National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health, there’s low- or moderate-quality evidence that these practices may be helpful for chronic low-back pain.
How to stop back spasms
When back spasms strike, finding quick and effective ways to stop them becomes a top priority. Fortunately, there are several strategies you can employ to get on track to a pain-free day.
- Stretch it out — Gentle stretching exercises can help relax muscles and relieve tension, potentially easing back spasms, according to Alberta Health Services.
- Apply heat or cold therapy — The Mayo Clinic notes that heat helps reduce pain by relaxing and loosening tense muscles, which can help speed healing. Further, alternating between heat and cold packs can help reduce inflammation and soothe the affected area, providing temporary relief.
- Practice good posture — Maintaining proper posture while sitting, standing and lifting can alleviate strain on back muscles, reducing the likelihood of spasms.
- Stay active — Regular exercise, particularly activities that strengthen the core and promote flexibility, can aid in preventing future back spasms by improving muscle strength and stability.
Back spasms can be managed and alleviated
Back spasms can be a disruptive and painful experience, but they can be effectively managed and alleviated with the right approaches. Understanding the causes, symptoms and treatment options for back spasms empowers individuals to take control of their well-being and find relief.
From applying heat or cold therapy to practicing good posture and engaging in targeted exercises, there are various strategies available. Remember, if back spasms persist or worsen, it is important to seek professional medical advice to receive personalized guidance and ensure the most appropriate course of action for your specific condition.
Copyright ©2023 HealthDay. All rights reserved.
by Comp Ortho | Jun 26, 2023 | pain, Spine, surgery, Wellness
If you have had a sharp pain shooting down one leg, you may be experiencing a condition called sciatica.
Here is what you need to know about sciatica, including what it is, its causes, symptoms and treatments. Plus, learn about medications, self-care and stretches that may provide relief.
What is sciatica?
Sciatica refers to pain that travels along the path of the sciatic nerve. The sciatic nerve travels from the lower back through the hips and buttocks and down each leg. The pain may be severe but usually clears up in a few weeks.
Sciatica nerve pain causes and risk factors
Causes of sciatic nerve pain include anything that affects the sciatic nerve, according to Penn Medicine:
- Slipped or herniated disk
- Spinal stenosis
- Piriformis syndrome
- Pelvic injury or fracture
- Tumors
- Spondylolisthesis
The Cleveland Clinic notes that risk factors include:
- A current or previous injury
- Normal wear and tear
- Excess weight or obesity
- Insufficient core strength
- Your job
- Type 2 diabetes
- Physical inactivity
- Improper form when lifting
- Tobacco use
Sciatica symptoms
Penn Medicine further reports sciatica pain can vary from mild tingling to a dull ache or a burning sensation. Typically, the pain affects one side of the body. It may worsen:
- After standing or sitting
- At night
- When sneezing, coughing or laughing
- When bending backwards or walking a few yards
- When straining or holding your breath
Sciatica treatment
Sciatic nerve pain will typically improve on its own, although the following treatments may provide relief:
- Medications including nonsteroidal anti-inflammatories such as ibuprofen, steroids, antidepressants, seizure medications and opioids.
- Applying heat or cold to the sore muscles and ensuring that you are moving may also help.
If your condition persists, your health care provider may recommend surgery.
Sciatica stretches
Stretches may help alleviate the pain caused by sciatica. It is always important to check with your doctor before beginning any exercise regimen. These stretches are from Brian Jones, a physical therapist at HSS Rehabilitation and Performance in New York. If you find that any of these stretches increase your pain, stop immediately. Ideally, the stretches can be done daily, with a minimum of twice a week.
Glute bridge
- Lie on your back with your knees bent and feet flat on the floor, hip-width apart. Allow your arms to rest straight at your sides, palms down.
- Tighten your core, drawing in your belly button toward your spine.
- Press your arms into the floor for support and push through your heels, raising your hips toward the ceiling and squeezing your glutes. The goal is for your body to form a straight line from head to knees, with very little arch in the lower back.
- Hold 5 to 30 seconds. Lower slowly.
Clamshell
- Lie on your side with both knees bent. Tuck your bottom arm under your head to support it.
- Engage your core, drawing in your belly button toward your spine.
- Keeping your feet together, slowly raise your top knee, opening your legs like a clamshell opens. Use your top arm to help steady yourself so you don’t roll toward your back.
- Hold 5 to 30 seconds. Lower slowly.
Bird-dog
- Start on all fours. Be sure your hands are directly below your shoulders and your knees are directly below your hips.
- Engage your core, drawing in your belly button toward your spine. Gaze forward and slightly down (about a foot in front of your hands) to avoid putting stress on your neck.
- Lift your left arm straight in front of you and extend your right leg straight behind you. (You can do this at the same time or one and then the other.) Be sure they are in a straight line with your back. (Doing this next to a mirror can make it easier to check your form.)
- Pause, then lower your hand and leg. Check that your back is still straight, not sagging or hunched. Readjust your gaze if your neck is bothering you.
- Repeat with the other leg and arm.
Living with sciatica
“Most cases of sciatica resolve in less than 4 to 6 weeks with no long-term complications even if no medical therapy is sought,” Dr. David Davis of Orange Park Medical Center in Jacksonville, Fla., writes in StatPearls. “In more severe cases or cases where the neurologic deficit is present, the patient may have a more prolonged course of recovery. However, recovery is still excellent.”
Maintaining a healthy weight, exercising if possible, and completing your stretching exercises may help improve your pain and prevent future recurrences. Seek medical help if your condition does not improve, or if it worsens. If you have bowel or bladder issues, or are unable to move your leg, it is time to seek immediate care.
Copyright ©2023 HealthDay. All rights reserved.
by Comp Ortho | Jun 26, 2023 | pain, Spine
If you suffer from upper back pain, it’s time to reclaim your comfort and regain control of your daily life. Relief from this debilitating condition is within reach.
Here, you will learn about the causes of upper back pain and strategies to alleviate your discomfort.
What is upper back pain?
Imagine discomfort that takes residence between your shoulder blades, affecting your daily life, and keeping you from doing many of the things you love. That’s just what upper back pain entails — a sensation of pain or discomfort from the base of your neck to the bottom of your ribcage. According to Dignity Health, this form of back pain can vary in intensity, ranging from a mild annoyance to a debilitating ache, and it can either be persistent or surface only during certain activities.
While back pain is widespread, upper left back pain and upper right back pain are less common than their counterparts in the lower back. The bones in your upper and middle back form a sturdy connection with your ribcage, limiting their mobility compared to the more flexible bones in your neck and lower back. This unique skeletal structure contributes to the distinctive nature of upper back pain, requiring specific attention and care.
What is causing my upper back pain?
If you are experiencing upper back pain, you want to understand what is causing it. The Cleveland Clinic suggests that upper back pain emerges from diverse medical conditions and injuries, each with its unique set of triggers. Here are the most common causes:
- Strains and sprains — Among the leading causes of upper back pain, strains occur when muscles, tendons or ligaments are subjected to excessive stress. Poor lifting techniques or attempting to lift objects beyond your capacity can result in these injuries.
- Poor posture — Many individuals with upper back pain struggle to maintain an upright stance. Their posture may become compromised, causing them to stand askew or hunched, with their torso deviating from proper alignment with the spine.
- Disk problems — Disks in the spine tend to slip or “bulge,” exerting pressure on nearby nerves. They can also experience tears, commonly referred to as herniated disks, further contributing to upper back pain.
- Fractures — Accidents, such as car crashes or falls, can lead to fractures in the bones of the spine, which invariably generate intense upper back pain.
- Arthritis — Osteoarthritis, a widespread form of arthritis, can instigate upper back pain as it affects the joints and cartilage, causing inflammation and discomfort.
What are the symptoms of upper back pain?
Back pain is one of those things that can creep up on folks, catching people off guard. NewYork-Presbyterian says you may experience these upper back pain symptoms:
- Sharp pain — Often described as a burning sensation or akin to the piercing thrust of a knife, this sharp pain can be localized to a specific spot or radiate, traveling along a nerve pathway to affect other areas.
- General achiness — Starting in one particular region, a sense of overall achiness may gradually extend to neighboring areas, contributing to a pervasive discomfort.
- Stiffness — Reduced mobility in your back, brought on by pain or achiness, can lead to stiffness, limiting your range of motion and making it harder to move.
- Tingling, numbness or weakness — These sensations, reminiscent of pins and needles, numbness or weakness, can be a sign of the compression or impingement of nerves in the affected area.
How to relieve upper back pain
“There are so many variables when it comes to back pain,” said Dr. James Dowdell, a spine surgeon at the Hospital for Special Surgery (HSS) in New York City. “How it can be treated depends on what’s causing it. Ultimately, some types of back pain can be helped with surgery, and some can’t.”
That said, tailoring your treatment approach to your upper back pain’s specific causes and symptoms is critical. For individuals experiencing mild to moderate discomfort, home management strategies are worth considering. Here are some options for upper back pain relief from the Cleveland Clinic:
- Over-the-counter pain medications — Acetaminophen (Tylenol) and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can relieve pain or inflammation.
- Heating pad — Applying a heating pad to the affected area can help ease pain and alleviate stiffness, promoting relaxation and improved mobility.
- Ice pack — To address pain and swelling, consider using an ice pack or a cold compress. This can help reduce inflammation and numb the area, providing temporary relief.
- Medical massage — A professional trained in medical massage can target specific muscles and promote relaxation, potentially reducing pain and tension.
- Adequate rest — Prioritize sufficient rest to allow your body time to heal and recover. Adequate sleep and moments of relaxation can help you manage your symptoms.
Consider stretches for upper back pain as well. HSS recommends stretches such as a trunk rotation, a slouch overcorrection stretch, and a standing lumbar extension. And never underestimate the power of self-care to help alleviate upper back pain. The Mayo Clinic reiterates the importance of being active in your daily routine and performing low-impact exercises like walking.
The path to recovery: Navigating the challenges of upper back pain
Upper back pain can take an immense toll on your everyday life. The throbbing discomfort, the limitations it imposes and the frustrations it breeds are all too familiar. But you are not alone in this journey toward relief and recovery. With proper understanding, tailored care and a compassionate support system, you can triumph over the silent suffering of upper back pain and embrace a life filled with all those activities and experiences you have been missing.
Copyright ©2023 HealthDay. All rights reserved.
by Comp Ortho | Jun 26, 2023 | pain, Spine
The phrase “pain in the neck” is a tongue-in-cheek way to describe annoying situations or people that test our patience, but for those who experience genuine neck pain, it’s no laughing matter.
Neck pain can be a debilitating condition that affects daily life and leaves sufferers longing for relief. This article will explore some practical strategies to alleviate neck pain and provide self-care tips, neck pain exercises and other helpful treatments to try.
Neck pain causes
Neck pain, also called cervicalgia, is the discomfort experienced in or around the spinal area beneath the head. The Cleveland Clinic says neck pain is common, affecting 10% to 20% of adults.
And it should come as no surprise that your neck, medically known as the cervical spine, plays a crucial role in supporting the weight of your head and facilitating its movements. But various injuries and medical conditions can give rise to neck pain. Left untreated, neck pain can become a persistent hindrance, interfering with your daily activities and diminishing your overall quality of life.
In an article, Dr. Zacharia Isaac, medical director of the Comprehensive Spine Care Center at Brigham and Women’s Hospital in Boston and director of interventional physical medicine and rehabilitation at Harvard Medical School, writes that neck pain usually builds over time.
“Neck pain rarely starts overnight,” he writes in a school web page. “It usually evolves over time. And it may be spurred by arthritis or degenerative disc disease, and accentuated by poor posture, declining muscle strength, stress, and even a lack of sleep.”
Fortunately, most neck pain causes are not severe and can be effectively addressed through conservative treatments. The Mayo Clinic provides this list of common neck pain causes:
- Muscle strain — Activities like prolonged computer or smartphone use and seemingly minor actions such as reading in bed can strain the neck muscles due to overuse.
- Worn joints — Like other joints, the neck joints can experience wear and tear over time. This can lead to the development of bone spurs, affecting joint motion and triggering pain.
- Nerve compression — Chronic neck pain can be attributed to the compression of nerves caused by bone spurs or herniated disks within the vertebrae of the neck. As these structures exert pressure on the nerves branching out from the spinal cord, it can lead to persistent discomfort.
- Injuries — Rear-end auto collisions often cause whiplash injuries, where the head is forcefully jerked backward and forward, straining the neck’s soft tissues.
- Diseases — Certain medical conditions, such as meningitis, rheumatoid arthritis or cancer, can potentially have neck pain as a symptom.
Johns Hopkins Medicine notes that pain that may come on quickly or slowly and that lingers for weeks, three months or more is considered chronic. Chronic neck pain is less common than acute pain.
Neck pain symptoms
Recognizing and understanding the symptoms associated with neck pain is essential for effective diagnosis and treatment. By being aware of these telltale signs, you can gain insights into the nature of your discomfort and take appropriate measures to alleviate it.
The American Association of Neurological Surgeons says that in addition to neck pain, pressure on a nerve root or the spinal cord by a herniated disc or a bone spur may result in the following neck pain symptoms:
- Pain in the arm
- Numbness or weakness in the arm or forearm
- Tingling in the fingers or hand
- Difficulty with balance and walking
- Weakness in the arms or legs
Neck pain on the left side commonly stems from non-serious factors like muscle strain due to an uncomfortable sleeping position or inflammation. Occasionally, there may be serious underlying causes such as tumors or arthritis.
Similarly, pain on the right side of the neck is typically attributed to causes like muscle strain, poor sleeping posture or improper alignment. If the pain persists for an extended period, it is advisable to consult a doctor for guidance on medical treatments and potential home remedies.
Overall, neck pain is not something to ignore. Keck Medicine of USC says headache, a fever and a stiff neck may be signs of meningitis.
How to get rid of neck pain
Harvard Health offers these six strategies for neck pain relief:
- Avoid prolonged static positions: To prevent your neck from getting stuck in an unhealthy position, it’s important to avoid staying in one posture for too long. Regularly moving and changing positions can help alleviate strain.
- Optimize your workspace ergonomics: Adjust your computer monitor to eye level, use hands-free options for phone calls and consider wearing a headset. When using a tablet, prop it on a pillow at a 45-degree angle instead of keeping it flat on your lap.
- Keep your eyeglasses updated: “When your eyewear prescription is not up to date, you tend to lean your head back to see better,” Isaac said.
- Limit pillows while sleeping: Sleeping with excessive pillows under your head can limit your neck’s range of motion. It is advisable to use a supportive pillow that promotes proper spinal alignment.
- Respect your physical limits: Before attempting any strenuous activities that may strain your neck and back, such as moving heavy furniture, consider the potential impact and seek assistance if needed.
- Make quality sleep a priority: Sleep disturbances have been associated with an increased risk of various conditions, including musculoskeletal pain. Establishing healthy sleep habits can contribute to overall well-being, including neck pain management.
Exercises can also help you manage neck pain. Scotland’s NHS Inform recommends movement and stretching exercises. Performing neck stretches involves simple and controlled movements. One option for a movement exercise is to start by facing forward and gradually turn your head to one side until you feel a gentle stretch on the opposite side of your neck. Hold for two seconds, then return to the starting position before repeating the stretch on the other side.
The Mayo Clinic also recommends pain relievers for acute neck pain relief. Pain relievers might include nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin IB, others) or naproxen sodium (Aleve) or acetaminophen (Tylenol, others). Be sure to follow all dosage recommendations and take only as directed.
Neck pain relief is possible
Neck muscle pain can be a disruptive force, affecting daily activities and overall well-being. Understanding the causes, symptoms and effective treatments makes it possible to seek relief. Whether through self-care practices, targeted exercises or medical interventions, the path to a pain-free neck is within reach.
Copyright ©2023 HealthDay. All rights reserved.
by Comp Ortho | Jun 26, 2023 | pain, Spine
“Oh, my aching back!” Everyone has uttered these words at some point, in response to the sharp, sudden pain that comes with back spasms.
This article will explore the causes of back spasms, their symptoms and, most importantly, effective treatments. Whether you’re experiencing your first spasm or seeking ways to prevent future episodes, understanding the triggers and what to do is key.
What is a back spasm?
According to the Cleveland Clinic, back spasms can range from tiny twinges to crippling contractions that leave you unable to move. They occur when the muscles in your back contract involuntarily and intensely. The sensation can vary widely from person to person. For some, it may come on as a mild, dull ache or an occasional twitch; for others, it can escalate into sharp, excruciating pain that becomes debilitating.
What causes back spasms?
Many factors can contribute to these sudden and often painful muscle contractions. Understanding the underlying triggers is essential in both preventing and addressing back spasms.
The Cleveland Clinic provides this list of common back spasm causes.
- Insufficient muscle usage — Prolonged periods of sitting, poor posture, lack of exercise and underutilizing back and abdominal muscles can result in weakness, making the muscles prone to spasms and discomfort.
- Overexertion and excessive use of muscles — Athletes and individuals involved in heavy lifting activities may experience spasms due to muscle strain, which involves small tears in the muscle fibers, causing inflammation.
- Dietary factors — Inadequate water, potassium and calcium intake can contribute to back spasms. These essential nutrients are vital for maintaining proper muscle function and preventing imbalances that can trigger spasms.
- Mental and emotional well-being — Anxiety and stress can lead to muscle tightness, potentially resulting in spasms and discomfort.
- Traumatic incidents such as falls or car accidents — The sudden impact or force applied to the back can strain the muscles, ligaments or even the spine itself, causing pain and spasms as a protective response.
Back spasm symptoms
Back spasm symptoms are like a distress signal from your body, alerting you to underlying issues. Recognizing these symptoms is crucial in addressing and managing back spasms effectively.
The Mayo Clinic lists these symptoms:
- Back pain ranging from a muscle aching to a shooting, burning or stabbing sensation.
- Pain can radiate down a leg.
- Bending, twisting, lifting, standing or walking can make it worse.
Generally, back pain will subside after rest and home care. However, you should consult your doctor or health care provider if the pain:
- Lasts longer than a few weeks.
- Is severe and doesn’t improve with rest.
- Spreads down one or both legs, especially if the pain goes below the knee.
- Causes weakness, numbness, or tingling in one or both legs.
- Is paired with unexplained weight loss.
Seek medical attention immediately if pain causes new bowel or bladder problems, is accompanied by a fever or follows a fall, blow to the back or other injury.
Back spasm treatment
Various treatments can help alleviate the discomfort and promote healing. The Mayo Clinic notes that treatment options for back spasms may include:
- Applying ice or heat — The application of ice packs or heating pads can help reduce inflammation and soothe muscles. Cold therapy is generally recommended within the first 48 hours of a spasm, while heat therapy can be beneficial for relaxing tense muscles in the days that follow.
- Over-the-counter pain medications — Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen or naproxen sodium, can temporarily relieve back spasms by reducing pain and inflammation.
- Prescription medications — In some cases, muscle relaxants may be prescribed to help alleviate muscle tension and provide relief from severe spasms.
- Physical therapy — A physical therapist can design a personalized exercise program to strengthen the back muscles, improve flexibility and correct posture. A therapist may also utilize massage, manual therapy and electrical stimulation techniques to help manage pain and reduce spasms.
- Alternative therapies —Complementary treatments like acupuncture, chiropractic care and yoga have shown promise in relieving back spasms for some individuals. These approaches focus on improving overall well-being, promoting relaxation and reducing muscle tension. However, according to the U.S. National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health, there’s low- or moderate-quality evidence that these practices may be helpful for chronic low-back pain.
How to stop back spasms
When back spasms strike, finding quick and effective ways to stop them becomes a top priority. Fortunately, there are several strategies you can employ to get on track to a pain-free day.
- Stretch it out — Gentle stretching exercises can help relax muscles and relieve tension, potentially easing back spasms, according to Alberta Health Services.
- Apply heat or cold therapy — The Mayo Clinic notes that heat helps reduce pain by relaxing and loosening tense muscles, which can help speed healing. Further, alternating between heat and cold packs can help reduce inflammation and soothe the affected area, providing temporary relief.
- Practice good posture — Maintaining proper posture while sitting, standing and lifting can alleviate strain on back muscles, reducing the likelihood of spasms.
- Stay active — Regular exercise, particularly activities that strengthen the core and promote flexibility, can aid in preventing future back spasms by improving muscle strength and stability.
Back spasms can be managed and alleviated
Back spasms can be a disruptive and painful experience, but they can be effectively managed and alleviated with the right approaches. Understanding the causes, symptoms and treatment options for back spasms empowers individuals to take control of their well-being and find relief.
From applying heat or cold therapy to practicing good posture and engaging in targeted exercises, there are various strategies available. Remember, if back spasms persist or worsen, it is important to seek professional medical advice to receive personalized guidance and ensure the most appropriate course of action for your specific condition.
Copyright ©2023 HealthDay. All rights reserved.
by Comp Ortho | Jan 10, 2023 | Elbow, pain, Wellness
Bicep tears are common, but many people fail to realize that the pain they’re feeling is actually caused by their bicep, not their shoulder.
You may not realize it, but you put a lot of strain on your shoulders when lifting weights or playing common sports like baseball or football. Although the shoulder joint is strong and flexible, it sometimes buckles under the weight of overuse or a sudden injury. However, just because you’re experiencing shoulder pain, that doesn’t necessarily mean you’re experiencing an issue with the joint itself. A bicep tear can also cause severe shoulder pain.
That may seem surprising, since when you think of your bicep you likely think of your upper arm. And it’s true that your bicep muscle sits at the front of your upper arm, but that doesn’t mean it can’t cause pain elsewhere. In fact, your bicep works with your shoulder thanks to two tendons that attach the muscle to the scapula bone of the shoulder. Another tendon also links the muscle to the radius bone at the elbow. The muscle and tendons are what gives your shoulder its mobility. Although the tendons and muscle are durable, an injury or repetitive motions can lead to painful tears. At New York Bone & Joint Specialists, we’ve treated many bicep tears and can help you on the road to recovery.
What a bicep tear feels like
Bicep tears can either be partial or complete. Partial tears mean only part of the muscle or tendons are torn. In a complete tear, the bicep tendon tears into completely separate pieces.
Most often, tears are caused by an injury, such as lifting a heavy object or a fall. However, athletes who regularly perform overhead motions, such as throwing a baseball, are also particularly vulnerable to bicep ruptures. A bicep tear comes with some noticeable symptoms that can help you identify your injury as a bicep tear rather than a shoulder injury. These are:
Sharp pain. As your bicep tears, you’ll likely feel a sudden jolt of pain either near your shoulder or near your elbow. This pain occurs whether you suffered a partial tear or a complete tear.
Popping sound. Along with pain, the torn bicep may produce a popping sound when injured.
Bruising. After a tear, you may notice bruising, swelling, and a feeling of warmth in your upper arm that could extend to your elbow.
Lingering pain. A tear could develop over time due to overuse. In this case, instead of sudden, sharp pain, the pain and tenderness in the arm and shoulder will gradually increase if the tear isn’t treated.
Weakness in the shoulder and arm. A bicep tear weakens your arm and shoulder, such that you can’t perform routine tasks. One telltale sign of a bicep tear is that you cannot rotate the palm of your hand either up or down when your arm is straightened.
Abnormal bulge. When the tendons cannot hold the muscles in place, the muscles in the upper arm may bulge outward in what is termed the “Popeye muscle.” You may see a pronounced dent closer to your shoulder. too.
Bicep tear treatment
Treatment options vary depending on whether the bicep tear is a partial tear or a complete and based on the age and activity level of the patient. Tears of the tendons connected to the shoulder are most common, and are termed proximal bicep ruptures. The alternative is a distal bicep tendon tear, which occurs when the tendon attached to the elbow is injured.
Younger, active patients benefit greatly from arthroscopic surgery to repair the damaged tendon. Older, less active patients may opt for conservative therapy instead, which includes rest, icing, and non-steroidal anti-inflammatories. Once healed — whether using surgery or a conservative approach — you’ll undergo an extensive physical therapy program guided by the therapists to get your shoulder back to a normal range of motion. Although you’ll feel significant improvement in four to six weeks, a complete recovery usually takes three to four months.
Heal your bicep tear today!
An aching shoulder can greatly affect your quality of life. But the orthopedists at CompOrtho can diagnose and treat your shoulder, whether your injury is due to a bicep tear or not, and get you back to normal again. Contact us for a consultation.
