Biceps Tendon Tear (at the Elbow)

Elbow Broken Bones & Injuries - Adelaide Orthopaedic Specialist

Biceps tears at the elbow are an uncommon injury, most often caused by sudden trauma and often resulting in lasting arm weakness. Once torn, the biceps tendon at the elbow will not grow back to the bone and heal, although other arm muscles make it possible to bend the elbow fairly well without the bicep tendon. However, they cannot fulfil all the functions of the elbow, especially the motion of rotating the forearm from palm down to palm up (supination).

To return arm strength to near normal levels, surgery to repair the torn tendon is usually recommended. However, nonsurgical treatment is a reasonable option for patients who may not require full arm function.

Dr James McLean provides consultation and various treatments for bicep tendon tears at the elbow and a wide variety of other elbow conditions in his multiple practice locations in Adelaide and Darwin. With his extensive experience in treating upper limb conditions, he works with his patients to create tailored treatment plans which yield the best possible outcomes for their injuries. Click here for more information on other conditions involving the shoulder, hand, wrist, and elbow which Dr James McLean has a special interest in treating.

This page was adapted from orthoinfo.aaos.org/en/diseases--conditions/biceps-tendon-tear-at-the-elbow: click the link to read more about the condition. To find out more about bicep tendon tears at the elbow or to book a consultation, contact Dr James McLean.

Patient information for elbow surgeries, injuries and conditions.

Elbow Treatments

Dr James McLean performs many different surgeries to treat elbow injuries and conditions. Browse the links below for more information on individual surgeries and how they are performed.

Distal Biceps Repair

Elbow Arthroscopy

Hemiarthroplasty (Elbow)

Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Injections

Total Elbow Joint Replacement (Elbow Arthroplasty)

Depending on the type and severity of your elbow injury, surgery might be the best option. Dr James McLean specialises in minimally invasive arthroscopic (key-hole) surgery. His aim is to get you the best possible outcome, taking into account your lifestyle, general health and family situation. Before surgery, Dr McLean will guide you through the process and address any concerns you have.

If you have a sports injury or other elbow condition, act now to make an appointment. Delaying treatment can cause permanent damage and reduce the potential for a full recovery.

Call our friendly team on 08 8267 8292 to make an appointment or use our handy online booking service. Consultations are available in Parkside (SA), Bedford Park (SA), Ashford (SA), Elizabeth Vale (SA), Darwin (NT).