What is a Distal Biceps Rupture?
A distal biceps rupture occurs when the tendon that attaches the biceps muscle to the radius bone in the forearm tears, often due to a sudden forceful movement. This injury can lead to weakness in bending the elbow and rotating the forearm. It most commonly affects men in their 40s to 60s who engage in heavy lifting or sports activities.

What Causes a Distal Biceps Rupture?

• A sudden, forceful straightening of the elbow while lifting or pulling
• Heavy lifting or strenuous activity
• Age-related weakening of the tendon
• Risk factors: smoking, steroid use, and repetitive strain on the tendon

Common Symptoms:

• Sudden sharp pain in the front of the elbow
• A popping or tearing sensation at the time of injury
• Weakness in bending the elbow and rotating the forearm (turning the palm up)
• A visible bulge in the upper arm (“Popeye sign”) due to tendon retraction

How is it Diagnosed?
Your hand surgeon will examine your arm for signs of weakness and tendon damage. They may ask you to bend your elbow and rotate your forearm against resistance to assess strength loss. A simple test involves feeling for the tendon at the elbow to check for a gap. An MRI may be ordered to confirm the diagnosis and determine the severity of the tear.

Treatment Options:

• Non-Surgical:
  • Recommended for partial tears or individuals with low physical demands.
  • Physical therapy can help improve function, but some strength loss may persist.
• Surgical:
  • The preferred treatment for active individuals to restore full strength.
  • The tendon is reattached to the radius bone using a button fixation technique.
  • Best performed within a few weeks of injury to prevent tendon shortening and scarring.

Recovery and Rehabilitation:

• Initial immobilization in a sling or brace for protection
• Gradual range-of-motion exercises followed by strengthening therapy
• Full recovery typically takes 3-6 months, with return to full activity around 6 months post-surgery

If you have symptoms of a distal biceps rupture, schedule a consultation with us to discuss the best treatment options for