The muscle at the front of the upper arm is known as the biceps muscle. The biceps muscle consists of fibrous tissue attaching to the shoulder and elbow bones with tendons. These tendons can tear in what is known as biceps tendon tear.

This is an uncommon injury, but it can occur due to sudden trauma to the biceps muscle or shoulder area. Biceps tendon tears can happen by lifting something of greater weight than the biceps muscle is equipped to sustain.

The tear can be partial or complete. A partial tear damages the soft tissue, however, it does not sever the tendon entirely. A complete tear, on the other hand, severs the tendon completely.

Signs and Symptoms

• Pain, which can be sharp and sudden
• Tenderness in the shoulder and elbow
• Bruising
• Cramping in the biceps muscle