Biceps tendon inflammation
The biceps muscle is a muscle of the upper arm with 2 muscle bellies and is important for flexion and rotation (supination) in the elbow joint. An inflammation causes irritation of the tendon, often the long biceps tendon. Patients complain of pain in the area of the shoulder joint and when the elbow is moved. The cause is mainly an overstrain of the muscle, especially during throwing sports or weight training. The inflammation is treated by taking painkillers and anti-inflammatory drugs as well as by sparing and cooling.
Tendinitis in the elbow
The elbow has a special anatomical significance in relation to tendonitis. This is because the muscles of the forearm are fixed to the bone at the level of the elbow on the one hand, but the corresponding tendons are also always subject to very special irritation and friction due to the flexion performed in the elbow. In addition to flexion and extension, rotating movements can also be performed in the elbow.
Both types of movement cause a strong friction of the tendons and can therefore lead to inflammation. Inflammation of the tendons of the elbow muscles also makes itself felt by pulling and burning and possibly also by radiating into the forearm. In the case of severe inflammation, the freedom of movement in the elbow is also restricted, i.e. habitual movements can no longer be performed without difficulty. An inflammation of the tendons in the elbow joint can last from a few days to weeks. Here too, it is very important to protect and cool the joint.
Is tennis elbow an inflammation of tendons?
Tennis elbow, also called epicondylitis humeri lateralis, is an inflammation of the tendons in the area of the outer elbow joint. It occurs mainly when the forearm muscles are overstrained during repeated movements in the arm. Tennis players are particularly affected.
Overstraining while playing tennis causes irritation of the extensor muscles on the upper side of the forearm. Patients therefore mainly report pain when the elbow and wrist are stretched. In addition, the rotation of the forearm (supination) hurts.
A tennis elbow usually heals well under good therapy. The therapy is done with cooling and protection of the arm. Painkillers and anti-inflammatory drugs can also help. Only in rare cases is surgical therapy necessary.
