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Conditions
Distal Biceps Tendinopathy
Category:
Diagnosis:
Description:
Predictors:
Humerus-Elbow
Distal Biceps Tendinopathy/Tear
Anterior elbow pain or sudden pop with weakness in supination; tendinopathy vs acute tear.
Tender distal biceps; pain with resisted supination; hook test abnormal in tears.
Non-Operative
Therapy:
Light Activities:
Moderate Activities:
Relative rest; eccentric loading; activity modification; brace; evaluate for tear if acute.
6–12 weeks (tendinopathy)
3–6 months for heavier use
Surgery
Surgery Probability:
Moderate if complete tear in active patients
Indications:
Recovery to Light Activities:
Recovery to Moderate Activities:
Sucess Rates:
Complication Rates:
Confirmed complete tear in active/younger patients; persistent disability.
Light ADLs in 2–4 weeks (post‑op)
3–6 months to moderate activity
Varies by repair
3–6 months for heavier use
Predictors:
Varies by repair
Nerve irritation/heterotopic ossification rare
Helpful Devices
Counterforce Strap
Reusable Cold Pack
Pron/Supination Bar
TheraBand Set
Topical Analgesic Gel
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