Biceps Tenodesis
The long head of the biceps is a common and often overlooked source of front-of-shoulder pain. Tenodesis detaches it from inside the joint and fixes it outside, relieving pain while keeping strength.
3D Animation (1:04)Watch how a biceps tenodesis is performed
Watch. Understand. Feel Confident.
1:04Biceps Tenodesis — 3D Animation
See how the procedure is performed step-by-step in this animation.
0:58Tenodesis Technique (Real Footage)
For medical professionals: the surgical technique of a biceps tenodesis, step by step.
For Medical Professionals
1:12Recovery After Biceps Tenodesis
When biceps loading is allowed again, and how the arm strengthens back up.
Arthroscopic
Day Care Surgery
40–60 Minutes
Pain ReliefSurgical Steps (Overview)
Dynamic Assessment
The tendon is inspected inside the joint and pulled into view.
Release
The inflamed intra-articular portion is released at its origin.
Site Preparation
The fixation site on the humerus is prepared.
Fixation
The tendon is secured with a screw, anchor or soft-tissue technique.
Associated Pathology
Cuff, labrum or impingement problems are treated in the same session.
Recovery Timeline (Step by Step)
Week 1–2Sling for comfort · Passive motion · Avoid active biceps use
Week 2–4Active-assisted motion · Sling discarded
Week 4–8Active motion · Light strengthening, no heavy curling
Month 2–4Progressive biceps and cuff loading
Month 4–6Full strength work and return to sport*A degenerate or unstable biceps tendon produces persistent pain at the front of the shoulder that injections relieve only temporarily. Tenodesis addresses the cause.
Because the tendon is reattached rather than simply cut, arm contour and supination strength are preserved — an important difference from a simple tenotomy.
- Front-of-shoulder pain localised to the biceps groove
- Tendon inflammation, instability or partial tearing on MRI
- A SLAP lesion in patients better served by tenodesis than repair
- Biceps pathology found during another shoulder procedure
- Targeted diagnosisExamination and injection response help confirm the source of pain
- Discuss the optionsTenotomy is simpler but may cause cramping and a contour change
- Sling arrangedUsed mainly for comfort in the first two weeks
- Plan the rehabBiceps loading is restricted for around six weeks
The biceps tendon is one of the most underestimated pain generators in the shoulder. When examination, imaging and injection all point at it, a tenodesis gives remarkably clean, predictable relief.
Questions & Answers
Will I lose arm strength?
What is the difference to a tenotomy?
Will there be a bulge in my arm?
How long before I can lift again?
Is it usually combined with other surgery?
Will the pain definitely go?
Note: This information is for general education only and should not replace a consultation with your doctor.
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