What is a SLAP Tear?
SLAP stands for Superior Labrum Anterior to Posterior. The labrum is a ring of fibrocartilage that deepens the shallow shoulder socket, improving stability. A SLAP tear occurs at the top of this labrum where the biceps tendon attaches.
How SLAP Tears Happen
Traumatic
Falling on an outstretched arm, a sudden pull on the arm, or a direct blow to the shoulder. Particularly common in contact sports.
Repetitive
Repeated overhead throwing causes repetitive peel-back stress on the superior labrum — a common mechanism in overhead athletes like cricketers and tennis players.
Symptoms to Watch For
Deep aching in the shoulder · Clicking or popping during arm movement · Pain specifically with overhead activities · Feeling of instability or reduced power in throwing · A clunking sensation when rotating the arm
Diagnosis
Clinical examination with specific SLAP tests. MRI arthrogram (MRI with contrast injected into the joint) is the most accurate imaging — regular MRI can miss SLAP tears.
Treatment
Conservative
Type I tears and degenerative SLAP tears in older patients: physiotherapy focusing on rotator cuff and scapular strengthening. Avoidance of provocative activities for 6-8 weeks.
Arthroscopic Repair
Type II-IV tears in younger, active patients: arthroscopic SLAP repair using suture anchors to reattach the labrum and biceps anchor to the bone. Recovery takes 4-6 months to return to throwing sports.
🎬 SLAP Tear Shoulder — Dr. Sumit Dubewar
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