PRP and Stem Cell Injections for Bicep Tendonitis (Tendinosis) offered in Estero, Florida
Relieve Shoulder and Arm Pain Without Surgery
Bicep tendonitis, also known as biceps tendinosis, is a common source of shoulder and upper arm pain that can interfere with daily activities, lifting, or overhead movements.
At Integrative Rehab Medicine located in Estero, FL, we offer regenerative, non-surgical treatments that address the root causes of bicep tendon pain and help restore strength and function, without relying on cortisone injections or surgery.
What Is Bicep Tendonitis?
Bicep tendonitis refers to inflammation or degeneration of the long head of the bicep tendon, one of the main tendons that connects the biceps muscle to the shoulder. It often results from overuse, repetitive motion, or shoulder instability and may occur alongside other shoulder injuries like rotator cuff tears or impingement.
Over time, the condition may progress from inflammation (tendonitis) to degeneration (tendinosis), where the tendon fibers weaken and lose structural integrity. Many will end up with MRI findings showing partial thickness tearing of the biceps tendon.
Symptoms of Bicep Tendonitis
- Aching or sharp pain in the front of the shoulder or upper arm
- Pain that worsens with lifting, pulling, or overhead activities
- Tenderness to the touch along the biceps groove
- Clicking or popping in the shoulder joint
- Weakness or fatigue during repetitive motion
If you’re experiencing these symptoms, early evaluation is key to avoid worsening of the injury and long-term dysfunction.
Precise Diagnosis - Targeted Treatment
At Integrative Rehab Medicine, we use a detailed diagnostic process to confirm bicep tendonitis and identify contributing factors such as posture, instability, or co-existing shoulder injuries.
- In-depth physical examination and orthopedic testing
- Diagnostic ultrasound and MRI to visualize the tendon and assess inflammation or degeneration
- Evaluation of shoulder biomechanics and movement patterns
This allows us to tailor a comprehensive regenerative treatment plan specific to your injury and functional goals.
Contrary to popular opinion: surgery and steroids are not your only options. Many biceps tendon injuries can be effectively treated non-surgically with regenerative injections.
Do You Want To Resolve Shoulder Pain And Restore Function?
Regenerative Treatment Options
- Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy
PRP contains growth factors that accelerate tissue repair. PRP injections can reduce inflammation, improve collagen remodeling, and promote long-term healing of tendon tissue. PRP works best for smaller partial thickness tearing and tendonitis. - Stem Cell Therapy
We utilize Bone Marrow Stem Cells to support tissue regeneration and repair, particularly for larger or more chronic tendon tears. Through the release of growth factors, stem cells regulate the local immune response, decrease inflammation and stimulate tissue growth
Are You A Candidate For Regenerative Shoulder Treatment
Complementary Treatments
In addition to regenerative injections, we incorporate evidence-based complementary therapies to enhance recovery and long-term shoulder function:
1-on-1 Physical Therapy
Work directly with a licensed physical therapist to strengthen and re-educate the rotator cuff and surrounding stabilizer muscles. This neuromuscular reprogramming helps restore movement patterns and reduce reinjury risk.
Nutritional Therapy & Supplements
Proper nutrition supports the healing of connective tissue. We offer personalized supplement protocols and dietary guidance to optimize collagen synthesis, reduce inflammation, and improve overall recovery.
Giga Laser Therapy
Our Giga Laser, one of the most powerful therapeutic lasers in the world, delivers high-dose red and infrared light therapy over large areas. This boosts mitochondrial activity and promotes rapid tissue healing and collagen formation.
Why Choose Integrative Rehab Medicine?
- Non-surgical, evidence-based care for rotator cuff and bicep tendon injuries
- Comprehensive evaluation determining the root cause of your pain
- Personalized regenerative treatment plans specific to your injury and functional goals
- Avoid surgery and reduce downtime – many patients are back to activity 3-4 weeks after treatment
- Expert clinicians with extensive experience in regenerative and rehabilitative medicine
Get Relief from Bicep Tendonitis Without Surgery
Don’t let shoulder or upper arm pain limit your activity or quality of life. At Integrative Rehab Medicine, we help patients heal naturally and avoid long recovery times from surgery. Schedule a consultation today to learn which regenerative treatment is right for you.
Schedule Your Consult with an Estero Shoulder Pain Specialist
Watch More Patient Testimonials:
FAQ's
Bicep tendonitis refers to inflammation of the tendon, often due to recent overuse or injury. Tendinosis is a more chronic condition where the tendon fibers have started to degenerate and weaken, sometimes with partial tearing. PRP and stem cell therapy can help with both conditions.
Cortisone injections can temporarily reduce inflammation but do not repair the tendon and may weaken it over time with repeated use. PRP and stem cell therapies aim to stimulate actual healing and tissue regeneration for longer-lasting results.
You may be advised to:
- Avoid anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs) for 5–7 days before treatment
- Stay hydrated before your appointment
- Eat a light meal prior to the procedure
- Arrange for someone to drive you if you are using pain medications or sedation
For PRP: A blood draw is performed, processed to concentrate platelets, and injected into the injured tendon under ultrasound guidance.
For stem cell therapy: Bone marrow is typically taken from the pelvis, processed, and injected into the injury site, also with ultrasound guidance. The whole process usually takes 45–90 minutes.
Some discomfort is normal during and shortly after the injection. We use local anesthesia to minimize pain, and most patients tolerate the procedure well. Mild soreness for 2–5 days is common as the healing process begins.
References
- An injection of adipose derived stem cells is safe and effective at treating partial thickness rotator cuff tears. This 2-year study shows stem cells are effective at resolving shoulder pain, improving function and healing the rotator cuff tear. (Jo, Chris Hyunchul, The Journal of Arthroscopic & Related Surgery, 2020) https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0749806319311600
- Injections of bone marrow stem cells plus PRP are safe and effective at treating non-retracted rotator cuff tears, providing long term pain relief and functional improvements. (Centeno, Journal of Stem Cells International, 2020) https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7204132/
- Subacromial injection of PRP is superior to steroids in providing long term pain relief and functional improvement in patient with partial rotator cuff tear. (Raslan, Egyptian Journal of Anesthesia, 2023) https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/pdf/10.1080/11101849.2023.2280944
- An injection of bone marrow aspirate is more effective than steroids at providing long term pain relief and functional improvement in patients with glenohumeral (shoulder) arthritis. (Dwyer, Journal of Arthroscopy, Sports Medicine and Rehabilitation, 2021) https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2666061X21001115
