Shoulder Labral (SLAP) Tear
What is a Shoulder Labral (SLAP) Tear?
A Shoulder Labral (SLAP) Tear is a specific type of injury that affects the labrum, a ring of cartilage that surrounds the socket of the shoulder joint. The term “SLAP” stands for Superior Labrum Anterior and Posterior, referring to the location of the tear. This type of tear typically occurs where the long head of the biceps tendon attaches to the labrum. Shoulder Labral (SLAP) Tears can cause pain, instability, and limited range of motion in the shoulder joint. Seeking specialized care from Shoulder Labral (SLAP) Tear specialists is crucial for accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
Causes
Several factors can contribute to the development of a Shoulder Labral (SLAP) Tear, including:
- Traumatic injury: Falling onto an outstretched arm, experiencing a direct blow to the shoulder, or participating in high-impact sports that involve repetitive overhead motions can cause a SLAP tear.
- Repetitive overhead activities: Engaging in sports like baseball, tennis, or swimming, which require repetitive overhead motions, can lead to gradual wear and tear on the labrum and result in a SLAP tear.
- Age-related degeneration: The labrum can naturally weaken and deteriorate with age, making it more susceptible to tears.
Symptoms
The symptoms of a Shoulder Labral (SLAP) Tear can vary depending on the severity of the tear, but common signs and symptoms include:
- Pain in the shoulder, especially when reaching overhead, lifting heavy objects, or performing activities that involve forceful arm movements.
- A feeling of shoulder instability or a sense that the shoulder may “catch” or “lock” during certain movements.
- Decreased range of motion, particularly with overhead motions or when rotating the arm.
- Weakness, which may affect daily activities or athletic performance.
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A Shoulder Labral (SLAP) Tear can cause significant pain, instability, and limited shoulder function. Seeking timely and specialized care from Shoulder Labral (SLAP) Tear specialists is crucial for an accurate diagnosis and effective treatment.
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Treatments
The treatment options for Shoulder Labral (SLAP) Tears can vary depending on several factors, including the severity of the tear, the patient’s age and activity level, and the presence of any associated injuries. Shoulder Labral (SLAP) Tear specialists will determine the most appropriate treatment plan, which may include one or more of the following:
Non-Surgical Treatments:
Rest and activity modification
Avoiding activities that exacerbate symptoms and allowing the shoulder to rest and heal.
Physical therapy
A specialized exercise program to strengthen the muscles around the shoulder joint, improve stability, and restore range of motion.
Pain management
Over-the-counter or prescription medications to manage pain and reduce inflammation.
Shoulder Labral (SLAP) Tear Specialist’s Surgical Interventions:
Arthroscopic repair
For severe or persistent tears, arthroscopic surgery may be recommended. This minimally invasive procedure involves using small instruments and a camera to repair the torn labrum and stabilize the shoulder joint.
Biceps tenodesis
In some cases, if the biceps tendon is involved in the tear, it may be reattached to a different location on the humerus bone to relieve symptoms and improve shoulder function.
Following surgery, a comprehensive rehabilitation program will be prescribed to gradually restore strength, range of motion, and function to the shoulder.