The biceps muscle lies over the front of the upper arm. Its main action is to bend the elbow with the palm facing upwards. It also assists raising the arm forwards from the shoulder.

The biceps may be strained following a direct blow, when attempting to bend the elbow against a sudden or unexpected force or after unaccustomed lifting or “pulling” activities that overload the muscle.

Pain may be felt along the muscle belly or tendon attachments to the front of the elbow or shoulder. Attempts to bend the elbow against resistance or stretching the elbow straight will reproduce the pain. Swelling or bruising may follow a traumatic onset.

Self-treatment principles of rest and ice (see Injury Treatment Principles) will assist the resolution of pain and minimise inflammation. The elbow should be bent and straightened as far as comfortable with the assistance of the opposite arm as necessary. Muscular injuries often recover quickly and as full painless movement is restored, strength should be regained using biceps curls.