Superior Labrum, Anterior to Posterior tears (SLAP tears), also known as labrum tears, represent 4% to 8% of all shoulder injuries.
A SLAP tear is an injury to the superior labrum, a ring of cartilage in the shoulder socket that is also the attachment point for the biceps tendon. It can be caused by a fall, a direct blow to the shoulder, or repetitive overhead motions and may result in pain, clicking, or a feeling of instability.
A SLAP tear can occur by trauma: a fall onto an outstretched hand or a direct blow to the shoulder, repetitive stress: over time, repeated overhead activities like throwing or painting, or general wear and tear, especially in people over age 40.
Symptoms of SLAP tears could include:
- Pain deep within the shoulder, which can be a dull ache or a sharp pain.
- A catching, locking, or grinding sensation when you move your arm.
- Loss of strength in the shoulder.
- A feeling that the shoulder might “pop” out of place.
- Pain with specific actions like raising your arm overhead.
Physiotherapy for SLAP tears requires appropriate strengthening around the shoulder for support and maintaining shoulder mobility, so the stiffness doesn’t progress.