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 Tendon Repair
Biceps Tendon Repair (Tenodesis)
Biceps tendon repair, also known as tenodesis, is an arthroscopic (keyhole) surgical procedure carried out to reattach a ruptured biceps tendon. The biceps muscle, located at the front of the upper arm, plays a key role in elbow flexion and forearm supination (turning the palm upward). The muscle is connected to the shoulder and elbow by tendons and has two points of origin:
- Long head of the biceps – arises from the supraglenoid tubercle of the scapula and the superior labrum.
- Short head of the biceps – arises from the coracoid process of the scapula (a bony prominence at the front of the shoulder).
Both muscle heads merge into a single tendon attachment at the radial tuberosity of the elbow.
Among these, the long head of the biceps is the most vulnerable to injury and rupture.
- 1. Progressive Rupture (Degenerative):
Over time, repetitive activities can cause partial tearing and inflammation (biceps tendonitis) of the long head tendon. In severe cases, this leads to a complete rupture. The tendon slips downward, producing a distinctive “Popeye” deformity when the muscle contracts. This type of rupture is more common in older adults, often associated with rotator cuff tears. Surgery is usually not required if daily function remains unaffected. -
2. Traumatic Rupture (Acute):
A sudden, forceful load on the biceps (e.g., heavy lifting) may cause the tendon to rupture instantly. Patients often report a popping sound, followed by sharp pain, swelling, bruising, and the characteristic Popeye sign. In such cases, biceps tenodesis surgery is typically performed to reattach the torn tendon and restore strength.
Symptoms Following Biceps Tendon Repair
After surgery, your arm will typically be supported in a protective sling for up to 3 weeks. This helps safeguard the repair and encourages proper healing. During this phase, your surgeon will guide you on the safe amount of movement and permitted daily activities. Common post-operative symptoms include:
- Pain
- Stiffness
- Swelling
- Bruising
Physiotherapy Following Biceps Tendon Repair
Rehabilitation is a vital part of recovery after biceps tendon repair Acephysiosports.com provides a structured programme tailored to your individual needs, focusing on reducing symptoms, restoring movement, and rebuilding strength.
Weeks 1–3
Early physiotherapy is aimed at minimising complications, managing pain, and gently introducing controlled movement. Treatment may include:
- Pain management techniques
- Postural education
- Scapular setting exercises
- Elbow, wrist, and hand range of movement and strengthening
- Passive range of motion for the elbow and shoulder
- Gradual introduction of active elbow and shoulder exercises
- Education and recovery advice
Weeks 4–6
During this stage, you will begin to move out of the sling and increase shoulder and arm mobility. Strengthening is gradually introduced, alongside exercises to restore normal biomechanics. Treatment may include:
- Active range of motion for shoulder and elbow
- Continued scapular setting
- Early rotator cuff strengthening
- Introduction of isolated biceps strengthening
- Kinetic chain control exercises
- Proprioceptive (stability and coordination) training
- Soft tissue release
- Scar management
Weeks 7–12
Rehabilitation becomes more advanced, with focus on restoring full range of motion, strength, and endurance. Treatment may include:
- Active range of movement to achieve full elbow and shoulder mobility
- Stretching and flexibility work
- Progressive biceps strengthening, including eccentric training
- Advanced scapular stabilisation
- Open chain strengthening exercises
- Sports- and function-specific training
- Advanced proprioceptive drills
- Long-term shoulder and arm conditioning
By the end of 12 weeks, most patients will have regained full movement, improved muscular strength, endurance, and control. At this point, you should be able to return to daily activities, sport, or occupational tasks. acephysiosports.com will also provide a long-term management plan to maintain improvements and support personal fitness or performance goals.
Summary
Biceps tendon repair (biceps tenodesis) is a common surgical treatment for tendon rupture, whether caused by age-related degeneration or traumatic injury. A rupture can significantly affect functional, sporting, and work activities, making surgical repair and structured rehabilitation essential. With a personalised physiotherapy programme from Acephysiosports.com, patients can achieve full recovery of movement, strength, and arm function, supporting a safe and confident return to activity.
To arrange an assessment with AcephysioSports.com, please contact us or call +65 8153 5374. Alternatively, you can book an appointment online today!
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Sat: 8am - 4pm
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