A SLAP tear can cause deep shoulder pain, clicking, weakness, and difficulty lifting or performing overhead activities. These injuries may develop gradually from repetitive motion or occur suddenly after a fall, forceful pull, or other trauma.
With sports medicine fellowship training and extensive experience treating shoulder injuries, Dr. Brian Cohen provides individualized SLAP tear treatment in Columbus, OH. He evaluates the labrum, biceps tendon, shoulder stability, activity level, and response to previous care before recommending nonsurgical treatment or surgery.
What is a SLAP Tear?
A SLAP tear is an injury to the labrum of the shoulder. The labrum is a ring of cartilage that surrounds the shoulder socket and stabilizes the head of the upper arm bone.
SLAP is an acronym for superior labrum anterior and posterior. In a SLAP injury, the top or superior part of the labrum is injured. The top of the labrum is where the long head of the biceps tendon is attached. A SLAP tear can occur in the front (anterior) and back (posterior) of this attachment point. The biceps may also be injured.
Types of SLAP Tears
There are several types of SLAP tears:
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Type I SLAP Tear – The top rim of the labrum is frayed, but it is still attached to the glenoid. This type of tear is degenerative and is commonly found in middle-aged or older patients. This type of tear can usually be treated without surgery.
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Type II SLAP Tear – The labrum and biceps anchor are detached from the top of the glenoid. This is the most common type of SLAP tear and may involve the front, back, or both sides of the attachment. Treatment may include physical therapy and other nonsurgical care, while surgery may be considered when symptoms continue or the injury substantially limits shoulder function.
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Type III SLAP Tear – Sometimes called a “bucket-handle” tear, this type of SLAP tear is characterized by the torn labrum hanging onto the joint. Treatment usually involves removal of the bucket-handle segment and repair of any unstable labrum through arthroscopic surgery.
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Type IV SLAP Tear – This is a bucket-handle tear to the top of the labrum that extends into the biceps tendon. Treatment varies based upon how much of the biceps tendon is torn.
SLAP Tear Causes and Risk Factors
SLAP tears are caused through chronic injury, acute injury, or through degeneration.
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Chronic injury – The labrum can wear down through repeated actions over time. Athletes who participate in repetitive overhead sports such as baseball, volleyball, tennis, swimming, and weightlifting may develop a SLAP tear over time.
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Acute injury – A SLAP tear can be caused by acute trauma, such as a motor vehicle accident, falling onto the shoulder, or forceful pulling on the arm.
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Degeneration – A SLAP tear can develop over time, through the general aging process.
SLAP Tear Symptoms
Most individuals with SLAP tears experience pain in the shoulder joint. This may be accompanied by catching or a popping sensation.
The most common symptoms of a SLAP tear include:
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Deep, aching pain
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Popping, clicking, catching, grinding, or locking in the shoulder
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Shoulder instability or weakness
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Pain when moving the arm or shoulder
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Pain when holding the shoulder in specific positions
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Discomfort when lifting objects
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Decreased shoulder strength
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Decreased range of motion
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Decline in athletic performance
SLAP Tear Treatment Options
In some cases, a SLAP tear can be treated nonsurgically, with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications or physical therapy. More severe cases may require surgery.
If nonsurgical treatment does not improve your symptoms or if you’ve sustained a more severe injury, shoulder arthroscopy surgery may be recommended. Dr. Cohen will evaluate the best treatment option based upon the type of tear you have, your age, your activity level, and the presence of any other injuries.
Why Choose Dr. Cohen?
OVER 25+ YEARS OF EXPERIENCE
One of the first orthopedic surgeons employed by a large hospital. Dr. Cohen spent 20 years.
TRUSTED BY OVER 100,000+ PATIENTS WORLDWIDE
Over his distinguished career, Dr. Cohen has cultivated a reputation of excellence and trust among his patients and his peers.
UTILIZING THE LATEST TECHNOLOGY
To achieve the best surgical outcomes, Dr. Cohen uses the most advanced technologies and techniques, keeping his practice state-of-the-art.
PATIENT SAFETY IS TOP PRIORITY
An individualized, patient-focused process coupled with decades of training and experience helps ensure maximum safety for all of Dr. Cohen’s patients.
SLAP Tear Care in Columbus, OH
A SLAP tear can interfere with lifting, reaching, sports, work, and everyday shoulder movement. Dr. Cohen evaluates the labrum, biceps tendon, symptoms, and activity goals before recommending physical therapy, medication, injections, or arthroscopic treatment when appropriate. To schedule a consultation with Dr. Brian Cohen, call (614) 788-0375.
