Distal biceps tendon rupture: what to know

The distal biceps tendon connects the biceps to the radius. A sudden force while the elbow is straight can tear it, sometimes with a pop, bruising, swelling, or a change in the muscle contour. Weakness is often most noticeable when bending the elbow or turning the palm upward against resistance. A clinician examines the tendon and compares strength and movement between both arms; imaging may be used when the extent of injury is uncertain.

Stop heavy lifting and protect the arm until it has been assessed. Treatment depends on age, activity needs, the affected arm, tendon retraction, and medical factors. Some people are managed without surgery using activity changes and rehabilitation, while active adults who need strong pulling or palm-up rotation may discuss tendon repair surgery. If surgery is chosen, the repair is protected first and movement and strengthening are introduced in stages through post-operative rehabilitation.

Arrange prompt orthopaedic assessment after a sudden elbow injury followed by a pop, bruising, visible upper-arm shape change, or new weakness. Seek urgent help for severe swelling, an open injury, loss of hand sensation, a cold or pale hand, or pain that is rapidly escalating. Do not test the tendon repeatedly with heavy resistance while waiting.

Ask whether the tendon is partly or completely torn, where it has retracted, and what strength may be affected without repair. Ask about the timing of any operation, protection needed afterward, expected rehabilitation milestones, and the movements you should avoid now.