SLAP Tears

SLAP tears can result from both acute trauma and repetitive overuse. Common causes include:

• Acute injury: A fall onto an outstretched arm, a direct blow to the shoulder, or a sudden pull on the arm, such as when lifting a heavy object, can lead to a SLAP tear.
• Repetitive motions: Repetitive overhead movements that place stress on the shoulder joint can lead to a SLAP tear. The repetitive force can lead to gradual fraying or tearing of the labrum over time.
• Degeneration: In some cases, SLAP tears can occur due to age-related wear and tear. As people get older, the labrum can become weaker and more susceptible to tears from even minor movements.

Athletes who engage in sports that involve repetitive, overhead, or forceful shoulder movements are at a higher risk of developing a SLAP tear. This includes baseball pitchers, tennis players, and swimmers who rely on repeated overhead motions that stress the shoulder joint. Similarly, volleyball players, weightlifters, and athletes in sports like javelin or softball, where throwing is essential, face increased risk due to the repetitive strain on the labrum. Additionally, football players, especially linemen, are at risk because of the forceful impacts and tackles that can lead to sudden shoulder injuries. Proper training, conditioning, and attention to technique can help these athletes reduce their risk of a SLAP tear.

Over time, repetitive daily tasks such as lifting, reaching, or pushing can gradually cause wear and tear on the shoulder joint, leading to labral injuries. Additionally, older adults may experience a SLAP tear from falls or sudden jerking motions, which can occur during activities like catching themselves when tripping. Degenerative SLAP tears are more common in patients over 40, and they can often accompany other shoulder conditions, such as rotator cuff tears or arthritis.

The symptoms of a SLAP tear can vary depending on the severity of the injury. Common signs include:

• Pain: Persistent pain in the shoulder, especially when lifting the arm overhead or engaging in activities like throwing or reaching behind the back.
• Clicking or popping: Some patients may feel or hear a clicking, popping, or grinding sensation in the shoulder, particularly during certain movements.
• Decreased strength: Weakness, particularly when trying to lift objects or perform overhead motions, is a common symptom.
• Limited range of motion: Difficulty moving the shoulder through its full range of motion may also indicate a SLAP tear.
• Instability: Feeling as though the shoulder might “give out” or is less stable can be a sign of a labral tear.

Diagnosing a SLAP tear involves a combination of physical examinations and imaging tests. Dr. Connor Ziegler, a shoulder, elbow, and knee orthopedic sports medicine specialist in New England, conducts a thorough assessment to determine the presence and extent of the injury.

• Physical examination: During the exam, Dr. Ziegler will ask about the patient’s symptoms, injuries and medical history. He will perform specific tests that involve moving the shoulder in different directions to check for pain, weakness, and instability. These tests help identify patterns consistent with a SLAP tear.
• Imaging tests: If a SLAP tear is suspected, advanced imaging techniques may be recommended. An MRI with contrast dye can provide a detailed view of the labrum, allowing Dr. Ziegler to assess any damage. In some cases, an arthroscopy, a minimally invasive procedure that allows direct visualization of the joint, may be performed to confirm the diagnosis.

Early diagnosis and appropriate management of a SLAP tear are essential to restoring shoulder function and preventing further injury. As an expert in sports medicine, Dr. Connor Ziegler offers comprehensive care to help patients recover from shoulder injuries and return to their activities safely.