Overview
The distal biceps tendon attaches the biceps muscle at the elbow. A rupture is usually a sudden injury during a forceful lift, producing a pop, bruising, and weakness with lifting and rotation.
Common Symptoms
- A sudden 'pop' at the front of the elbow
- Bruising and swelling
- Weakness bending the elbow and turning the palm up
- A change in the shape of the biceps
Causes & Risk Factors
- A sudden, forceful load on a bent elbow
- Heavy lifting
- More common in men over 35
Treatment Options
- Non-operative care for select lower-demand patients
- Anatomic distal biceps tendon repair
Procedure we perform for thisDistal Biceps Repair →
Recovery & What to Expect
Prompt repair restores strength best. A protected rehabilitation program returns most patients to full lifting over 3–4 months.
This page is for general education and is not a substitute for a medical evaluation. Treatment recommendations depend on your individual diagnosis and goals. Kevin O'Donnell, MD serves Coral Gables, Miami, Brickell, Pinecrest, Coconut Grove.