Medical Disclaimer
This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. eBicep is not a medical provider and cannot diagnose, treat, or provide medical recommendations. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment of any injury or medical condition. eBicep and its authors assume no liability for any actions taken based on the information provided.
Knowing what a bicep tendon tear looks like can help you identify a potentially serious injury that needs medical attention. Here's what to look for.
Visual Signs of a Bicep Tendon Tear
The "Popeye" deformity:
The most recognizable sign of a complete bicep tendon tear. The muscle bunches up toward the shoulder, creating a ball-like appearance similar to Popeye's famous cartoon arms.
• More prominent with proximal (shoulder) tears
• Also occurs with distal (elbow) tears
• May not be immediately visible if swelling is significant
Bruising (ecchymosis):
• Often extensive with complete tears
• May track down the arm over several days
• Purple, blue, or greenish discoloration
• Location depends on tear site
Swelling:
• Immediate swelling at the injury site
• May mask the Popeye deformity initially
• Usually subsides over days, revealing the deformity
Gap or defect:
• With complete tears, you may feel a gap where the tendon should be
• At the elbow: soft spot in the crook of the arm
• At the shoulder: defect in the bicep groove area
Proximal vs. Distal Tear Appearance
Proximal tear (at shoulder):
• Muscle bunches lower on the arm
• "Ball" of muscle appears closer to the elbow than normal
• Front of shoulder may appear flattened
• Bruising typically in the upper arm and shoulder area
Distal tear (at elbow):
• Muscle bunches higher on the arm
• "Ball" of muscle appears closer to the shoulder than normal
• Obvious defect in the crook of the elbow
• Bruising typically in the forearm and elbow area
Partial vs. Complete Tears
Partial tears:
• May have minimal visual changes
• Some swelling and bruising possible
• No Popeye deformity (muscle remains attached)
• Pain and weakness without dramatic appearance changes
Complete tears:
• Popeye deformity typically present
• Significant bruising common
• Obvious change in arm appearance
• Marked weakness in flexion and/or supination
The Hook Test (Distal Tears)
A clinical test healthcare providers use for distal bicep tears:
• With the elbow bent 90 degrees
• Examiner attempts to "hook" finger under the bicep tendon at the elbow
• If the tendon is intact, it can be hooked
• If torn, there's nothing to hook—just soft tissue
This is a medical examination technique, but understanding it helps explain what doctors are looking for.
What to Do If You Suspect a Tear
Immediate steps:
• Stop activity immediately
• Apply ice wrapped in cloth
• Note the circumstances of the injury
• Take photos of any visual changes for medical reference
Seek evaluation:
• Contact a healthcare provider or go to urgent care
• Complete tears benefit from early surgical evaluation
• Imaging (MRI or ultrasound) confirms the diagnosis
The Bottom Line
The visual signs of a bicep tendon tear—particularly the Popeye deformity, significant bruising, and a palpable gap—are important warning signs that warrant medical evaluation. If you notice a sudden change in your bicep's appearance after an injury, don't wait to seek care. Early diagnosis and treatment lead to better outcomes.