With everyone doing at home workouts it’s important to be careful especially if you are just starting to do this for the first time. The bicep is that muscle that people are always striving to make big in the upper arm.
A common issue that occurs when utilizing dumbbells is a bicep strain. 
The bicep’s job is to bend the elbow when we are speaking in this sense. A common problem arises when the bicep is put under repetitive strain such as when doing too many elbow curls and/or doing elbow curls with too much weight. It is also common with weightlifting when focusing on the “negatives.” This is when you hold a weight and slowly extend the arm. Another way to cause a bicep strain is when lifting something heavy and your bicep is forced into a straightened position.
What are some signs of a lower bicep issue?
- Dull or sharp pain at the inside of the elbow
- Possible redness around the elbow
- Swelling and/or bruising
- Weakness of the elbow
Why should you address the issue early on?
As more wear and tear occurs at the elbow it can cause small tears in the muscle itself. If the issue is not handled right away and activity continues, these small tears will get worse and cause a complete rupture of the tendon. When a rupture occurs, the tendon will come off of the bone. In the elbow, this will present itself as a “Popeye” deformity. The muscle will actually bunch itself up into a large, painful ball in the upper part of the arm. At that point, surgery will be required.
What can you do to handle the issue now?
It is important to seek out the advice of a Physical Therapist who can evaluate the elbow and give you the proper exercises and ensure that you progress at the correct rate. A physical therapist will also be able to give you home exercises based on your presentation. Early on attention will be given to pain relief and promote improved range of motion. As the pain improves and there is normal range of motion, strengthening can start. Strengthening too fast and too soon can cause the pain to get worse or even tear the tendon, so if you are experiencing this issue now, please give us a call!
By Devin Wurman, DPT
Call 703-450-4300 TODAY for more information and to get started with your physical therapy!
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