What Is a SLAP Tear?
A SLAP tear (Superior Labrum Anterior and Posterior) is an injury to the ring of cartilage that stabilizes the shoulder joint. This cartilage, called the labrum, keeps the “ball” of your upper arm bone securely in the “socket.” When torn, the joint can feel painful, unstable, or weak.
SLAP tears are particularly common in athletes who engage in overhead movements, such as baseball players, swimmers, or weightlifters. However, they can also occur due to falls, heavy lifting, or age-related wear and tear. At Sano Specialty Care, our Kansas City specialists diagnose and treat SLAP tears using the most effective techniques to get you moving again.
Common Symptoms
SLAP tears can be tricky to recognize because their symptoms overlap with other shoulder conditions. Common signs include:
- Deep shoulder pain that worsens with overhead activity or lifting.
- Clicking, popping, or grinding sensations during movement.
- Shoulder instability or weakness, especially with throwing or pushing.
- Reduced range of motion, making it difficult to reach behind your back or over your head.
If you’re experiencing these symptoms, a specialist evaluation is the best next step.
Causes & Risk Factors
SLAP tears may develop from:
- Repetitive motion – overhead sports like baseball, tennis, or volleyball.
- Trauma or falls – landing on an outstretched arm or shoulder impact.
- Shoulder dislocations – often accompanied by labral tearing.
- Age-related degeneration – cartilage naturally weakens over time.
Patients over 40 may develop SLAP tears gradually without a specific injury.
How SLAP Tears Are Diagnosed
At Sano Orthopedics, our specialists use a combination of:
- Medical history & symptom review – to understand when and how the pain began.
- Physical exam – testing strength, range of motion, and signs of instability.
- Imaging – MRI with contrast (MRA) provides the best view of labral tears.
This comprehensive approach ensures accurate diagnosis and the right treatment plan.
Non-Surgical Treatment Options
Not all SLAP tears require surgery. Many patients improve with:
- Rest & activity modification – avoiding overhead or high-strain movements.
- Anti-inflammatory medications – to reduce pain and swelling.
- Physical therapy – strengthening surrounding muscles and restoring mobility.
- Corticosteroid injections – when pain is persistent despite other treatments.
These conservative options are often recommended first, especially for minor tears or non-athletes.
Surgical Treatment Options
For patients with severe tears, ongoing pain, or instability, surgery may be the best option. At Sano, our orthopedic surgeons perform:
- Arthroscopic labral repair – reattaching the torn labrum with sutures.
- Labral debridement – removing frayed tissue for smoother movement.
- Biceps tenodesis – relocating the biceps tendon attachment if involved in the tear.
Our surgeons use minimally invasive techniques whenever possible, which means smaller incisions, less pain, and quicker recovery.
Recovery After SLAP Tear Treatment
Recovery is often the biggest concern for patients. Here’s what to expect:
- Non-surgical care – several weeks of physical therapy with gradual return to activity.
- Post-surgery – typically 4–6 weeks in a sling, followed by structured rehab.
- Full return to sport – often 4–6 months for athletes, depending on the severity of the tear.
Our care team supports you through every stage, from early pain management to advanced strengthening.
Why Choose Sano Specialty Care
- Expertise in shoulder injuries – our team treats hundreds of labral tears annually.
- Comprehensive care – from diagnosis to surgery to rehab, all under one roof.
- Patient-first approach – clear communication, personalized plans, and advanced techniques.
Don’t let shoulder pain hold you back. Schedule an appointment and talk to our shoulder specialists. We can help you with a specific treatment plan to overcome shoulder pain and move freely again.
