Labral and SLAP tears are common shoulder injuries affecting the stability and functionality of your shoulder joint. This article will discuss their symptoms, causes, diagnosis, and treatment options, including SLAP tear surgery.
If you’re experiencing shoulder discomfort or suspect a labral tear, schedule an appointment with Dr. Brent J. Morris in Lexington, Kentucky. Dr. Morris offers personalized treatment options tailored to your needs that can help you regain optimal shoulder function.
Your shoulder labrum is a thick band of tissue that helps connect the socket of the scapula (glenoid) with the head of the upper arm (humerus). It surrounds your shoulder socket keeping your shoulder joint stable. It also provides an attachment for the long head of your biceps muscle and several ligaments.
Shoulder labrum tears can occur in different places. A SLAP tear refers to a specific location of the labrum. SLAP stands for “superior labrum anterior-posterior.” This means that the shoulder labral tear occurs on the top of the labrum from the front to the back. This is the same place where the long head of the biceps tendon attaches.
SLAP tears, also known as SLAP lesions, can vary in severity. There may be some minor fraying, or it can completely detach from the shoulder socket.
Your labrum can tear in different locations. The different types of labral tears are as follows:
Shoulder labral tears can cause symptoms in your shoulder and biceps tendon. The following are some of the symptoms of a labral tear:
A shoulder labral tear is a common injury for those who perform frequent overhead arm movements. These may include weightlifters, tennis players, and manual workers. Labral tears are usually a result of one of the following:
A doctor’s diagnosis is important to determine the exact cause of the symptoms.
Diagnosis will include a physical exam. Dr. Morris will consider your symptoms and move your arm and shoulder in different positions. Imaging tests could be used to help rule out other injuries and identify the exact location and severity of your injury. These tests may include X-rays and an MRI scan.
Dr. Morris will determine the best course of treatment according to the severity of your injury. If the injury is minor, a shoulder labrum tear can be treated using non-surgical treatment. This may include rest and physical therapy. However, if the injury is severe or there is damage to ligaments or tendons, Dr. Morris may recommend SLAP tear surgery.
Common surgeries for a SLAP tear include the following:
During SLAP repair, Dr. Morris uses minimally invasive surgery to repair the labrum. Ligaments may need to be reattached to the bone at the same time.
This procedure involves detaching the biceps tendon from the shoulder labrum and then reattaching it onto the humerus (or upper arm) bone. This allows the tendon to retain its function.
To prevent shoulder labral tears, you must avoid putting excess stress on your labrum. Some measures you can take to prevent tearing your labrum are as follows:
Don’t let shoulder pain or limited range of motion keep you from enjoying your daily activities. If you’re seeking relief from shoulder discomfort, Dr. Morris is here to help.
Brent J. Morris, MD, specializes in diagnosing and treating shoulder injuries in Lexington, Kentucky, including labral and SLAP tears. With advanced techniques and personalized care, we aim to provide effective solutions to alleviate your symptoms and restore your shoulder function.
Don’t wait any longer to address your shoulder concerns. Contact us now to schedule your consultation and embark on the path to recovery with confidence.
Medically reviewed by Brent J. Morris, MD
"Dr. Morris first listened to me, then examined me and answered all my questions. I found him thorough, straight to the point, and eager to help offering several strategies. I liked him and trust him." - Judy K.
Recovery time varies depending on whether treatment is surgical or non-surgical. Non-surgical treatment may take several weeks, while recovery after surgery can take several months and requires structured rehabilitation.
Yes. Without appropriate treatment, a labral tear may worsen over time, leading to increased pain, shoulder instability, and reduced function, especially with continued overhead or repetitive activity.
Surgery may be recommended if symptoms persist despite rest and physical therapy, or if the tear is severe and affects shoulder stability or function. Dr. Morris will consider your activity level, injury severity, and treatment response before recommending surgery.
Many patients return to sports after completing treatment and rehabilitation. Return-to-play timelines depend on the type of tear, treatment approach, and the demands of your sport or activity.
Yes. While labral tears are common in athletes and individuals who perform overhead movements, age-related wear and tear can also cause labral damage in older adults, even without a specific injury.
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