Long Head of Biceps — Intra-articular Portion

tendo capitis longi musculi bicipitis brachii (portio intraarticularis)

The intra-articular portion of the long head of biceps traverses the glenohumeral joint from the supraglenoid tubercle and superior labrum to the bicipital groove entry at the rotator interval. This segment is covered by synovium and exposed to intra-articular pathology. SLAP tears disrupt the labral attachment; biceps tendinopathy affects the bicipital groove entry zone. Biceps tenodesis (cutting the tendon and reattaching distally) or tenotomy (simply cutting it) are the primary treatments.

Region: Shoulder

Biomechanics

Function & Actions

Minor shoulder stabiliser from the intra-articular course; significant source of shoulder pain from tenosynovitis and partial tearing at the bicipital groove entry

Clinical Relevance

Clinical Notes

Speed's test (resisted shoulder flexion with elbow extended and forearm supinated) and the Yergason test (resisted supination with elbow at 90 degrees) reproduce LHB tendinopathy pain. LHB tenotomy provides rapid pain relief with minimal functional deficit in most patients; tenodesis is preferred in young, active, or cosmetically conscious patients to prevent Popeye deformity.

Pathology

Common Injuries & Conditions

LHB Tendinopathy

Bicipital groove and intra-articular long head inflammation producing anterior shoulder pain managed with tenotomy or subpectoral tenodesis.