Ace Physiotherapy and Sports in Singapore
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+65 81535374 -
ACE PHYSIO SPORTS
East gate Building, 46 East Coast Road
#08-03 Singapore 428766 -
Opening Hours
Mon to Fri: 08:00am - 8:00pm -
Opening Hours
Sat: 08:00am - 4:00pm
Sunday (By prior appointment)
Biceps Muscle Tear
What is a biceps muscle tear?
A biceps muscle tear refers to damage to the muscle fibres at the front of the upper arm. It may also be referred to as a pulled biceps, biceps strain, or biceps rupture. Physiotherapy is an effective treatment option for managing a biceps muscle tear.
What can cause a biceps muscle tear?
A biceps muscle tear is typically caused by a sudden, forceful contraction of the biceps. The muscle becomes particularly vulnerable to tearing during activities that involve elbow flexion, such as performing curls while weightlifting, or during pulling or lifting movements.
What are the symptoms of a biceps muscle tear?
When the biceps muscle is torn, the immediate sensation is typically sharp pain at the front of the upper arm, often accompanied by a distinct 'tearing' feeling. In cases of minor tears, you may be able to continue with your activity or sport with little initial restriction. However, pain and tightness usually worsen after exercise due to bleeding and swelling around the injured muscle. In more severe cases, intense pain, muscle weakness, and spasms occur immediately, often making it impossible to continue the activity. Other symptoms may include:
- reduced range of movement
- swelling/inflamation
- spasm
- tingling / pins and needles
What should I do if I have a biceps muscle tear?
The first 24 to 48 hours are crucial in managing a biceps muscle tear. While some swelling is a natural part of the healing process, excessive swelling can delay recovery and contribute to further tissue damage. To help control swelling by reducing blood flow to the injured area, it is important to follow the RICE protocol: Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation.
You should continue the RICE regime until you are able to see a physiotherapist. Ideally, your initial assessment should take place within 48 hours of the injury.
What shouldn’t I do if I have a biceps muscle tear?
If you have a biceps muscle tear, it is important to avoid any activities that may increase blood flow to the injured muscle during the first 48 hours. These include hot showers, stretching the elbow, applying heat rubs, receiving sports massage, consuming alcohol, and engaging in excessive physical activity. Such activities can increase bleeding within the muscle, resulting in greater pain and a longer recovery time.
Physiotherapy for a biceps muscle tear.
Physiotherapy plays a vital role in the treatment of a biceps muscle tear. During your initial assessment, a physiotherapist will diagnose the injury, identify the specific tissues affected, and determine the extent of the damage. Based on this evaluation, they will provide an estimate of your recovery timeline. Treatment will vary depending on the severity of the tear. In the early stages, the focus is on reducing pain and swelling while promoting the healing of the damaged muscle fibres. As your condition improves, your physiotherapist will introduce a personalised exercise programme aimed at restoring your range of movement, rebuilding strength, and improving overall function. These exercises are designed to support a safe and effective return to everyday activities and sport.
Other treatment may include:
- Electrotherapy
- Manipulation / Mobilisation
- Massage
- Sports Injury Rehab
To arrange an appointment, please call +65 81535374 or visit acephysiosports.com.
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Our clinics are open:
Mon - Fri: 8am - 8pm
Sat: 8am - 4pm
Sun: On Appointment Basis
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