Shoulder Labral Tears
Shoulder Labral Tears
(SLAP Tears)
What is it?
A ring of flexible, fibrous connective tissue, known as the glenohumeral labrum, surrounds the shoulder joint.
This labrum increases the stability of the shoulder while allowing for the required flexibility of one of the bodies’ most ophisticated joints.
One well-known muscle of the arm, the biceps, has an attachment directly into the labrum and is a common site of injury.
A tear of the labrum can occur in many locations, however the most common is at the point where the biceps tendon attaches to the labrum.
Usually, this tear follows a typical pattern
and is referred to as a superior labrum tear, anterior to posterior (SLAP tear).
What causes it?
SLAP tears can be caused by trauma such as a fall onto an outstretched hand or a dislocated
shoulder.
Tears can also develop over time with repeated throwing actions or overhead activities as the labrum is weakened and eventually injured.
Traumatic tears are more likely to be symptomatic than tears that develop slowly.
Disclaimer
None of the information in this article is a replacement for proper medical advice. Always see a medical professional for advice on your individual injury.
What are the symptoms?
As mentioned, SLAP tears can occur suddenly, through trauma or develop slowly through
repeated stress.
Often if the injury develops over time, patients can be unaware they have sustained a tear and the injury doesn’t have a significant impact on their pain or function.
Pre-existing SLAP tears can however, place more tension on the long head of biceps tendon,
leading to overuse disorders as a secondary complication.
When the tear occurs through a sudden action or trauma, symptoms can be more marked.
Sufferers often notice pain deep in the shoulder joint with overhead shoulder movements, a
feeling of weakness, loss of power and/or accuracy with throwing activities.
Some people may notice a popping or clicking sensation and occasionally the shoulder may give way.
In severe tears, the shoulder might feel unstable and even be at increased risk of dislocation.
How can physiotherapy help?
Your physiotherapist is able to help diagnose a suspected SLAP tear and send you for further imaging if needed.
SLAP tears are often graded by severity from I to IV as a way to guide treatment.
Physiotherapy is usually recommended as a trial for all tears before considering surgical repair and in many cases can effectively help patients return to their previous activities, symptom-free.
If physiotherapy is unsuccessful, surgical repair with a full rehabilitation program is recommended.
Surgery will usually either repair the tear or reattach the biceps tendon to the
humerus (tenodesis). Following surgery, a period of rest in a sling is required before
rehabilitation can begin.
Frequently Asked Questions
What services do you offer?
We specialize in the practice of Sports Medicine and provide services related to Sports Therapy, Chiropractic Care, Physical Therapy, Massage as well as off the shelf and custom Prosthetics & Orthotics.
Do I need an appointment?
Yes! We take pride in personal service and being very accomodating. Please click any of our Appointment Buttons and submit your information, we will be in touch to confirm your date and time.
Where is your office located?
We are located in downtown Calgary at 639 – 5th Ave SW – Suite 130. Easy street access right across 5th Avenue from Tim Hortons. Limited customer parking available at rear of building.
What are the office hours?
We are open Monday – Friday from 7:00 am until 5:00 pm.
Do I need a referral from my physician?
No, a referral is not required to schedule an appointment.
Do you provide custom brace solutions?
Yes, Dr. Rennick is qualified by the world’s top orthoepedic brands to develop custom bracing solutions for many conditions.
What Brands does Action Sports Clinic Carry?
We carry brands from the worlds top manufacturers including Donjoy, Össur, CTi, Bauerfeind, Thuasne and more.
Get in Touch
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639 5 Avenue Southwest Suite 130
Calgary, Alberta T2P 0M9