A shoulder injury can sneak up on you. One minute you’re lifting something at work or finishing a workout, and the next you’ve got pain, limited movement, or a clicking sensation that won’t quit. These can all be signs of a SLAP tear, a common but often overlooked shoulder issue.
What Is a SLAP Tear?
A SLAP tear stands for “Superior Labrum Anterior and Posterior” tear. It’s an injury to the ring of cartilage (the labrum) that lines the shoulder socket, where the biceps tendon attaches. The labrum helps keep your shoulder stable. When it’s torn, the joint can feel unstable or painful.
This kind of tear can happen from a sudden injury, like a fall or lifting something heavy overhead. It can also develop slowly over time from repetitive shoulder movement, which is common in athletes or people with physically demanding jobs.
Common Signs and How It’s Diagnosed
SLAP tears can be tricky to pinpoint without a proper evaluation. You might feel a deep ache in the shoulder, especially during overhead movements. Clicking, popping, or a catching sensation may also occur. Some people notice decreased strength or range of motion.
Diagnosing a SLAP tear usually starts with a physical exam. Your doctor may also recommend imaging tests. Our on-site MRI machine offers high-resolution scans, which help confirm the diagnosis and guide treatment.
How Do You Treat a SLAP Tear?
Treatment depends on the severity of the tear. In many cases, nonsurgical care can relieve symptoms. This might include rest, anti-inflammatory medication, and physical therapy. Our in-house physical therapists specialize in shoulder rehabilitation and can help you restore strength and function.
If symptoms persist or the tear is more serious, we may need to recommend arthroscopic surgery. This is a minimally invasive procedure where our surgeons repair the torn labrum using small incisions and a camera-guided tool.