SLAP Tear
Also see "Labral Tear." A SLAP tear (Superior Labrum Anterior and Posterior) is an injury to the ring of cartilage (labrum) which surrounds your shoulder socket (glenoid). The top part of the labrum, called the superior labrum, is attached to the proximal biceps tendon. A SLAP tear occurs at the superior labrum attachment site and extends to the front (Anterior) and back (Posterior) of the superior labrum attachment site. The labrum is commonly torn in this area and the biceps tendon can be torn as well.
Milwaukee Shoulder Doctor Treatment
This injury can be caused by repetitive or forceful shoulder motion during work or sports as well as acute trauma or severe stress. For example, falling on to an outstetched hand, repetitive lifting of heavy boxes, hard overhead throwing or other forceful overhead movements can all potentially cause a SLAP tear. Weightlifters are at a higher risk of injuring the labrum. Some SLAP tears are due to the labrum simply wearing out with age. You may feel pain, grinding, or even a sensation of “popping.” Your Milwaukee shoulder doctor will want to examine you and conduct diagnostic tests such as a MRI scan of the shoulder.
At first, treatment may not require surgery. Exercises, stretching, physical therapy and anti-inflammatory medicine such as ibuprofen can be effective. If your pain persists, arthroscopic surgery (superior labral repair) by a Wisconsin shoulder injury doctor may be required to reattach or remove torn labrum. Recovery may take as long as 4 to 6 months if a superior labral repair is required.
