Ruptured Bicep: Initial Treatment & Recovery

Initial Treatment

- Immobilization. Complete rest of the injured limb is critical.

- Ice. Ice may be applied for up to 20 minutes, several times a day. For the first 48 to 72 hours after the injury, applying ice every 2 hours may help manage swelling and pain. Avoid applying ice directly to the skin. Wrap ice in a cloth to act as a barrier.

- Compression. Compression, such as with an elastic bandage, may help reduce swelling. Do not wrap too tightly, because that could restrict blood flow.

- Elevation. Elevating the injured limb above heart level may help reduce swelling.

Surgical Intervention

- For complete ruptures of the distal biceps, surgical intervention is usually required.

- For proximal injuries, treatment may be either surgical or nonoperative. Typically, athletes and manual laborers who want a higher level of strength following healing are candidates for surgical repair.