What is a SLAP Tear?

A SLAP tear is an injury to the upper part of the shoulder labrum, the cartilage rim that helps stabilise the shoulder joint.

SLAP stands for: Superior Labrum Anterior to Posterior.

The injury occurs where the long head of the biceps tendon attaches to the top of the shoulder socket (glenoid).

What Causes a SLAP Tear?

SLAP tears commonly occur due to:

• Falls onto an outstretched hand
• Sudden traction injuries
• Shoulder dislocations
• Repetitive overhead activities
• Throwing sports and weight training

Athletes involved in cricket, tennis, badminton, volleyball, swimming, wrestling and throwing sports are particularly at risk.

What are the Common Symptoms of a SLAP Tear?

Patients with SLAP tears may experience:

• Deep shoulder pain
• Clicking or catching sensations
• Pain during overhead activities
• Weakness during lifting or throwing
• Reduced sporting performance
• Feeling of shoulder instability

Many athletes notice difficulty with throwing, serving or overhead movements.

How is a SLAP Tear Diagnosed?

Diagnosis of a SLAP tear is based on:

• Clinical examination
• Special shoulder tests
• MRI scan
• MR Arthrogram in selected cases

MRI helps identify the SLAP tear and detect associated injuries such as rotator cuff tears or shoulder instability.

What are the Non-Surgical Treatments for a SLAP Tear?

Many patients improve with conservative treatment, including:

• Activity modification
• Anti-inflammatory medication
• Physiotherapy
• Rotator cuff strengthening
• Scapular stabilisation exercises

A trial of non-operative treatment is usually recommended for 3–4 months before considering surgery.

When is Surgery Recommended for a SLAP Tear?

Surgery may be advised for repair of a SLAP tear when:

• Symptoms persist despite physiotherapy
• Overhead sports become difficult
• Shoulder instability is present
• MRI confirms a significant SLAP tear
• The patient wishes to return to competitive sport

What is Arthroscopic SLAP Repair?

Dr. Anand Jadhav performs Arthroscopic SLAP Repair using advanced keyhole techniques.

The torn labrum is repaired back to the bone using specialised suture anchors, restoring shoulder stability and function.

In selected patients, particularly older individuals or those with associated biceps problems, a Biceps Tenodesis procedure may provide better outcomes.

What are the Advantages of Arthroscopic SLAP Repair Surgery?

• Small incisions
• Less pain
• Faster recovery
• Short hospital stay
• Excellent visualisation of the joint
• Earlier return to sports

How is the Recovery after SLAP Repair Surgery?

Typical recovery milestones include:

• Sling support: 4–6 weeks
• Physiotherapy begins early
• Strengthening exercises: 6–8 weeks
• Return to sports training: 3–4 months
• Full return to competitive sports: 4–6 months

Recovery timelines may vary depending on the severity of the injury and sporting demands.

Why Early Treatment Matters in SLAP Tears?

Untreated SLAP tears may lead to:

• Persistent shoulder pain
• Reduced sports performance
• Shoulder instability
• Rotator cuff problems
• Long-term shoulder dysfunction

Early diagnosis and treatment often lead to better outcomes and a quicker return to activity.

Why Choose Dr. Anand Jadhav?

Dr. Anand Jadhav has over 30 years of experience in Shoulder Arthroscopy and Sports Injury Surgery, with advanced training in the UK and internationally.

His expertise includes:

• Arthroscopic SLAP Repair
• Shoulder Stabilisation Surgery
• Rotator Cuff Repair
• Sports Shoulder Injuries
• Revision Shoulder Surgery

His aim is simple: Restore Stability • Relieve Pain • Return to Sport