What Is a SLAP Tear?
A SLAP tear is a shoulder injury that involves the top part of the labrumthe ring of cartilage that surrounds your shoulder socket. Your labrum helps keep your shoulder stable. SLAP stands for superior (top) labrum from anterior (front) to posterior (back).
Many people recover fully from a SLAP tear with the right treatment, often without surgery. At 泫圖弝け of Utah 泫圖弝け, our orthopedic experts are here to guide you through diagnosis, treatment, and recovery so you can get back to the activities you enjoy.
SLAP Tear Vs. Rotator Cuff Tear
Both SLAP tears and rotator cuff tears affect your shoulder, but theyre not the same. There are slight differences:
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A SLAP tear affects the labrum and the biceps tendon at the top of the shoulder socket.
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A rotator cuff tear affects muscles and tendons that surround the shoulder joint.
SLAP Tear Causes
A SLAP tear has many causes:
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Agingwear and tear on the shoulder over time
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Overusecommon in athletes who throw or swim a lot
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Sudden injurylike falling on your arm or lifting something heavy
SLAP Tear Symptoms
A SLAP tear can make your shoulder feel weak when you lift, throw, or reach overhead. People often say their SLAP tear pain feels deep inside the shoulder or right in front of it. Its usually hard to pinpoint exactly where it hurts.
A SLAP tear has several common symptoms:
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Clicking or popping when you move your arm
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Deep ache in the shoulder or ongoing shoulder pain
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Trouble lifting or reaching
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Weakness or loss of strength
When Should You See a Doctor?
Treating a SLAP tear early, even without surgery, can help you avoid pain or long-term problems. Make an appointment for a suspected SLAP tear if you experience troubling symptoms:
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You feel weak or unstable when lifting your arm.
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Youve had a fall or injury.
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Your shoulder keeps clicking or popping.
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Your shoulder pain doesnt go away.
Can a SLAP Tear Heal on Its Own?
Sometimes a SLAP tear heals on its own. Your symptoms may improve over time, even if the tissue doesnt fully heal. Some people live with a SLAP tear and feel fine. Many people feel better with anti-inflammatory medicine, physical therapy, rest, and by avoiding painful movements.
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Types of SLAP Tears
There are four main types of SLAP tears:
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Type 1 SLAP tearThe labrum is frayed but not fully torn. Normal aging often causes a type 1 tear. Surgery usually isnt part of the treatment for this type of tear.
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Type 2 SLAP tearThe labrum and biceps tendon have both come loose. This is the most common type of SLAP tear. Type 2 SLAP tear treatment may include surgery.
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Type 3 SLAP tearA piece of the labrum has torn off and is stuck in the joint. You may need surgery to remove the torn part.
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Type 4 SLAP tearThe tear extends into the biceps tendon. This often requires a special surgery called biceps tenodesis.
How Is a SLAP Tear Diagnosed?
Diagnosing a SLAP tear takes time and careful testing. There are some things you may expect your provider to do:
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Ask about your symptoms and how the injury happened.
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Complete a physical exam to test your shoulder strength and motion.
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Perform specific evaluations aimed at diagnosing a SLAP tear.
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Order an MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) to look for a tear. Your MRI may include an injection of contrast dye in your shoulder joint.
SLAP Tear Treatment
Most people with a SLAP tear start with non-surgical care:
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Anti-inflammatory medications
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Rest and activity changes
SLAP Tear Exercises
Physical therapy can reduce pain, improve motion, and strengthen the muscles that support your shoulder. You will likely start with gentle movements at first, then progress to more active exercises as you heal.
Your physical therapist will explain which SLAP tear exercises you should do and exactly how to do them. They may prescribe several types of exercises:
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Moving your arm
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Stretching
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Squeezing muscles
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Using resistance, like a resistance band
SLAP Tear Surgery
You may need surgery if your symptoms dont improve with other treatment. There are three main options for SLAP tear repair:
- Biceps tenodesisYour surgeon detaches the biceps tendon from the labrum and reattaches it to your upper arm bone to reduce pain and tension on the tear.
- Biceps tenotomyYour surgeon detaches the biceps tendon but does not reattach it. The tendon naturally retracts into your upper arm. Surgeons often use this option in older or less active patients. It may lead to slight changes in how your arm looks.
- SLAP repairYour surgeon stitches a torn labrum back to your bone.
The best SLAP tear repair option depends on your age, activity level, and type of tear. Your surgeon will help you decide which treatment supports the best outcome for your lifestyle.
Recovery from SLAP Tear Surgery
Recovering from SLAP tear surgery can take four to six months, depending on the procedure.
After surgery, you will likely wear a sling for a few weeks. The sling helps keep your arm and shoulder in place to heal. You will start physical therapy a few days or weeks after your surgery depending on your specific surgery and healing progress.
SLAP Tear Surgery Scars
SLAP tear surgery usually involves small cuts (arthroscopy). Most people have minimal scarring with SLAP tear surgery. In most cases, there only a few tiny marks on the shoulder.
Why Choose 泫圖弝け of Utah 泫圖弝け?
Our team works together to give you personalized care and the best chance at a full recovery. At U of U 泫圖弝け, you get expert care from highly trained orthopedic surgeons with broad expertise. We use the latest evidence-based treatments and specialize in shoulder and sports injuries.
Make an Appointment with an Orthopedic Surgeon
If you suspect you have a SLAP tear, were here to help. Some insurance plans may require a referral. Check with your insurance provider first. You can also visit our Orthopaedic Injury Clinic, where no referral is needed. For all appointments and inquiries, call us at 801-587-7100 to schedule.
