Prognosis/recovery – what must be taken into account in prevention?
The duration of the inflammation depends on the individual medical history. An acute inflammation, which occurs for the first time, has a better prognosis than a long-lasting, recurrent, already chronic inflammation.
- In acute cases, immobilization for a few days, possibly with the administration of anti-inflammatory, pain-relieving medication (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) is sufficient.
The symptoms will improve within a few days, and the biceps tendon should be able to resume its function within a few more weeks. In order to counteract a chronification or a recurrence, a search for the cause should be carried out.Muscular imbalances should be compensated and possible overloading should be avoided.
- In the case of chronic biceps tendon inflammation, healing is long. Immobilization may also be necessary.
If necessary, it is advisable to set a new inflammatory stimulus to stimulate healing (e.g. by transverse friction). The tendon should be protected against premature overloading. Patience is required during the healing process.
Intensive rehabilitative physiotherapy is recommended to protect the weakened tendon from recurrence or even tearing. In addition to drug therapy, cortisone injections can be used, the use of which should be discussed with the treating physician, since cortisone can permanently attack the structure of the tendon and joint cartilage. The healing of a chronic biceps tendon inflammation can take several months.
Bursitis
An inflammation of the bursa at the elbow usually occurs when the bony tip of the elbow is over-irritated due to permanent strain, for example when the elbow is frequently rested on the table. In English, bursitis of the elbow is therefore also called students elbow. The symptoms of bursitis are pressure and movement pain as well as the typical symptoms of inflammation (heat, redness, swelling).
Depending on the extent of the swelling, the elbow may be more or less restricted in its freedom of movement. If the inflammation of the bursa is not caused by bacteria and the bursa is uninjured, it usually heals on its own. Conservative therapy methods can positively influence the healing process. An operation is rarely necessary.
