What is a torn bicep muscle?

A torn bicep muscle, also known as a biceps brachii muscle rupture, occurs when the muscle located on the front of the upper arm, responsible for bending the elbow and twisting the forearm, tears. This can happen due to sudden forceful contractions or overuse of the muscle, often during weightlifting, sports, or manual labor.

Bicep tears can be partial, involving a portion of the muscle, or complete, where the muscle completely ruptures. The severity of the tear determines the extent of pain, bruising, swelling, and loss of function in the affected arm. Treatment for a torn bicep muscle may involve rest, ice, compression, elevation, physical therapy, and, in severe cases, surgical repair.