Understanding SLAP Tears

A SLAP tear (Superior Labrum Anterior to Posterior) is an injury to the ring of cartilage that surrounds the shoulder socket. This cartilage, called the labrum, helps keep the ball of the shoulder joint stable. When it tears at the top of the socket, patients often notice deep shoulder pain, clicking, and weakness during overhead motions.

Understanding SLAP Tears

The superior labrum anchors important ligaments and the biceps tendon at the top of the shoulder socket. A tear in this region can develop from a single injury or from years of repetitive overhead motion. Patients often describe a deep ache inside the shoulder rather than pain on the surface.

Common Symptoms

  • Deep shoulder pain, especially with overhead motion
  • Clicking, popping, or catching in the joint
  • Weakness or fatigue when throwing or lifting
  • Pain when lying on the affected shoulder
  • Reduced range of motion or loss of power

Causes & Risk Factors

  • Overhead sports such as baseball, tennis, volleyball, or swimming
  • Falls on an outstretched arm
  • Sudden pulling injuries (grabbing a heavy object, lifting abruptly)
  • Heavy weightlifting or repetitive overhead work
  • Natural wear and tear of the labrum over time

Treatment Options in Boise

At OrthoCare360, we customize SLAP tear treatment based on your age, activity level, and the severity of the injury. Many patients improve with targeted non-surgical care before surgery is considered.

Non-Surgical Treatments

  • Physical therapy: Strengthens the rotator cuff and shoulder blade muscles to reduce strain on the labrum.
  • Activity modification: Temporary adjustment of throwing, lifting, or overhead work.
  • Medications: Anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs) to relieve pain and swelling.
  • Injections: Corticosteroid injections may provide short-term relief of inflammation.

Surgical Options

When pain and dysfunction persist despite conservative care, arthroscopic surgery may be recommended.

  • Labral repair: Uses anchors and sutures to reattach the torn labrum to the socket.
  • Biceps tenodesis: Moves the biceps tendon attachment to reduce stress on the superior labrum.
  • Debridement: Smooths frayed or unstable tissue in less severe tears.

Our team will help coordinate surgical care and guide you through your recovery plan.

Recovery and Outlook

With proper rehabilitation, many patients return to sports and high-demand activities after a SLAP tear. Recovery timelines vary, but overhead athletes often require several months of structured therapy before full return to play.

See a Shoulder Specialist in Boise

If shoulder pain or clicking is affecting your performance, we can help you understand your options. We offer same-week appointments so you can get answers quickly. Call (208) 506-3665 or book online here.

Get Relief from SLAP Tear Pain

Don’t let shoulder pain, clicking, or weakness hold you back. Our specialists at OrthoCare360 provide personalized care to help you return to work, sports, and daily life.

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