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SLAP Tears & Labral Tears
SLAP and labrum tears can significantly impact your ability to perform daily activities and participate in sports. At OrthoKnox, our expert orthopedic surgeons specialize in diagnosing and treating shoulder problems. We offer advanced treatments and personalized rehabilitation plans to help you recover and restore full shoulder function. Learn more about SLAP and labral tears here.
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Understanding SLAP Tears & Labrum Tears
What is a SLAP / labrum tear?
One of the structures in your shoulder joint is the labrum, which is a thick ring of cartilage around the rim of the socket. The cartilage deepens the socket and holds the ball-shaped top of the humerus in the joint. The labrum can sustain several types of tears. It can come completely away from the bone, tear along the labral edge, or tear where the bicep tendon attaches to the labrum.
SLAP is an acronym for Superior Labrum Anterior and Posterior. A SLAP tear means that the top (superior) part of the labrum is torn both in front (anterior) and in the back (posterior) of the point where the biceps tendon attaches. When you sustain a SLAP injury, chances are the biceps tendon is also affected.
What causes a SLAP tear?
Most SLAP tears develop gradually from repetitive overhead movements. Baseball and softball players are especially vulnerable to SLAP tears, but the injury can develop in other sports and in jobs that require overhead arm movements, such as weight lifting or swinging a hammer.
Another primary cause of a SLAP tear is an age-related degeneration of the labrum. You can also develop the injury following an acute trauma such as:
- Shoulder dislocation
- Fall onto an outstretched arm
- Forceful pull on the arm such as with water skiing
- Automobile accident
You may suffer a SLAP tear due to any type of quick or forceful movement of the arm when it’s above the shoulder.
What are the symptoms of a labrum / SLAP tear?
With a SLAP / labral tear, you’ll experience symptoms such as:
- Locking, catching, popping, or grinding of your shoulder
- Pain when you move the shoulder
- Pain when lifting objects overhead
- Diminished shoulder strength
- Decreased range of motion
- Feeling like the shoulder joint could dislocate
If you’re a pitcher, you’ll notice a significant decline in your throwing velocity and accuracy.
Labrum / SLAP Tear Treatment in Knoxville, TN and the Knox County Area.
At OrthoKnox, labral/SLAP tear treatment usually begins with physical therapy to restore movement, improve flexibility, and strengthen the shoulder. Our on-site physical therapists work with you to develop a customized treatment that heals your current injury and prevents future problems.
If you still have pain after physical therapy, your doctor may recommend surgery to repair the labrum. This procedure is performed arthroscopically. After surgery, you’ll continue physical therapy to rehabilitate your shoulder and restore optimal strength and function.
If you develop shoulder pain or decreased movement, call OrthoKnox at 865.251.3030 or schedule an appointment online.
Disclaimer: This information is intended for general knowledge and informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment of any medical condition.
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— J.R.
The staff and the doctors are friendly and caring. They listen to what you have to say and answer your questions so that you understand. I highly recommend ORTHOKNOX!
— S.W.
My son suffered a torn ACL, MCL, and meniscus and broken cartilage in the high school football playoffs last season. Dr.Hovis performed surgery and my son was able to play the first game of the season this year! Dr. Hovis was great! We appreciate him so much!
— L.A.
Excellent experience. Mike took great care of me and was very thorough helping me figure out a complicated problem. 10/10 would recommend.
— S.G.
Neil is patient, responds to all my questions, provides objective options and delivers compassionate care. Never once did I feel rushed or uninformed.
— K.U.
My physical therapist was knowledgeable and personable and made me feel at ease throughout the entire session. I appreciated the thorough explanation of the treatment plan and the clear instructions on how to continue the exercises at home. I highly recommend this physical therapist to anyone needing care.
— W.C.
OrthoKnox is an excellent place. I had total knee replacement 3 weeks ago, and I am recovering beautifully. All my friends and family cannot believe how far I’ve come in just 3 weeks. The staff is very kind, caring and take the time to ensure that all my concerns, fears and questions are resolved. Dr. Hovis and his PA, Neil Stoner, are the best.
— P.S.
Instantly felt at ease and reassured with my daughter’s care. Professional, informative and great bedside manner!
— M.P.
Everyone here has been amazing since first coming in through diagnosis, surgery, and now the recovery phase. Couldn't recommend these people enough.
— D.I.
All the doctors and staff at OrthoKnox including those in the physical therapy department, are very caring, and competent. I have been very satisfied with both the surgery outcome as well as the recovery. One nice thing is there is very little wait time after you arrive at your appointed time.
— G.V.
Very friendly and prompt! Always a good experience at this office. Lovely staff!
— R.B.
Laura has been great! She has been extremely friendly and professional at every visit. She has helped me make substantial improvement in my injury.
— W.O.
Delightful, helpful, encouraging, professional group. I am very grateful for their kindness.
— G.M.
Dr. Hovis has taken care of me the past 12 years. Started out with knee surgery and later in life with a shoulder that needed an injection. I would never go anywhere else because he is the best, and he cares. My last visit a couple of months ago was like seeing a family member again. You’re in good hands here.
— J.S.
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