SLAP Tears

Understanding SLAP Tears

SLAP stands for "superior labrum, anterior to posterior." The labrum is a rim of cartilage that deepens the shoulder socket, and the long head of the biceps tendon attaches to its top. A SLAP tear is a tear of the top of the labrum, running from front to back where the biceps attaches.

SLAP tears occur from a fall on an outstretched arm, a sudden pull on the arm, a shoulder dislocation, or repetitive overhead throwing. In people over about 30 to 40, some fraying of the upper labrum is a normal part of aging rather than a true injury.

Initial treatment is usually nonsurgical, and many SLAP tears improve with physical therapy. For persistent symptoms, arthroscopic surgery may repair the labrum with sutures or release and reattach the biceps tendon (tenodesis). The choice depends on the type of tear, your age, activity level and any other injuries found at surgery.

Causes & Risk Factors

• Falling on an outstretched arm
• A sudden pull, such as catching a heavy falling object
• Shoulder dislocation
• Repetitive overhead throwing
• Age-related labral wear

Symptoms

Common signs and symptoms of SLAP Tears include:

• Deep shoulder pain with overhead activity
• Locking, popping, catching or grinding
• A feeling of instability or the shoulder slipping
• Loss of throwing velocity or strength
• Pain lifting objects, especially overhead

Treatment Options

Treatment for SLAP Tears depends on the severity of your condition and may include:

• Rest and anti-inflammatory medications
• Physical therapy to restore motion, rotator cuff strength and scapular control
• Arthroscopic SLAP repair
• Biceps tenodesis or tenotomy, depending on tear type, age and activity