Conquer the Catch: Demystifying and Battling SLAP Tears for a Pain-Free Shoulder
Unraveling the Enigma: Understanding the Anatomy of a SLAP Tear
A SLAP (Superior Labrum Anterior to Posterior) tear is a specific type of labral tear. This tear is located at the top (superior) of the shoulder socket and involves the biceps tendon attachment site. A SLAP tear occurs in both the front (anterior) and back (posterior) of the attachment site.
Injuries to the superior labrum are commonly caused by repetitive shoulder motions, an acute traumatic event or the natural aging process.
Common traumatic events include a fall onto an outstretched arm, a shoulder dislocation, forceful or rapid movements of the arm when it is above shoulder level and forceful pulling of the arm. Athletes who participate in overhead activities, such as throwing sports, are prone to SLAP tears because of the repeated stress placed on the shoulder joint during the throwing motion. Older adults over the age of 40 years may experience a SLAP tear from the natural degeneration of the labrum that occurs with aging.
The shoulder is defined as a ball-and-socket joint that is responsible for providing a smooth gliding surface when the arm is placed in motion. The labrum is an important structure within the shoulder joint and acts as an attachment site for various ligaments and tendons, including the biceps tendon. It is also responsible for deepening the shoulder socket so the joint is able to remain in the correct position. When the labrum becomes injured and involves the biceps tendon, a SLAP tear may be the outcome. Active individuals living in the Dallas, Frisco and Fort Worth, Texas communities can depend on the shoulder specialists at Texas Sports Medicine to properly diagnose and treat a SLAP tear so a full return to activities is accomplished.
Beyond the Pop and Grind: Recognizing the Symptoms of a Torn Labrum
- Pain with certain movements and when lifting, especially overhead
- Pain when holding the shoulder in certain positions
- A locking, popping, grinding or catching sensation
- Decrease in joint strength and range of motion
- A sensation the joint may “pop out” of socket
Restoring Control: Non-Surgical Strategies for Healing and Relief
- Rest
- Stop shoulder activities that cause symptoms
- Modify activities
- Change daily and work activities that cause discomfort
- Medications
- Take non-steroidal anti-inflammatory (NSAID) medications to help reduce pain and swelling
- Physical therapy
- Flexibility, strengthening and range of motion exercises will be prescribed to help stretch the affected shoulder capsule and strengthen the muscles that support the joint
It should be noted that heel spurs are often inappropriately thought to be the cause of heel pain. In fact, spurs are common and are nothing more than the bone’s response to traction forces from the plantar fascia. They are commonly present in patients without pain, and frequently absent in those who have pain. It is the rare patient who has a truly enlarged and problematic spur, and the presence of a spur often only serves to divert attention from the true cause of the heel pain.
When Precision Takes Command: The Surgical Solutions for SLAP Tears
- Debridement
- Surgical technique: Typically used for minor tears, torn or frayed labrum portions are trimmed away so a smooth edge is present in order to eliminate irritation and catching.
- Labral repair
- Surgical technique: Involves the use of bio-absorbable suture anchors imbedded in the edge of the glenoid. These sutures are placed through the labrum then snugly tied, securing the torn labrum back to the glenoid rim.
- Biceps tenodesis
- Surgical technique: Recommended for patients with significant tearing or degeneration of the biceps tendon. The biceps tendon is released from its attachment site inside the shoulder joint and then reattached to the upper arm bone.
Rebuilding Your Rhythm: A Step-by-Step Guide to Post-Surgery Recovery
- Affected arm is placed in a sling for up to 6 weeks
- Physical therapy focused on flexibility and strengthening will be prescribed when pain and swelling decrease
- Sport specific exercises will begin at 3-4 months
- Return to play is usually 6 months
FAQs: Unmasking the Mysteries of SLAP Tears and Preventing Future Battles
Empowering Your Shoulders: Building Strength and Resilience for an Active Future
Meet Your Shoulder Champions: Expert Allies on Your Path to Victory over SLAP Tears