Labral Tears (SLAP)

Cartilage ring injuries in throwers.

A SLAP tear is an injury to the top of the shoulder labrum where the long head of the biceps attaches. It is common in overhead athletes. Repair is not always the answer; sometimes releasing the biceps (tenotomy) provides better relief.

Symptoms

Clicking/Popping
Pain with overhead motion
Loss of velocity
Deep ache

Conservative treatment

Posterior capsule stretching
Rotator cuff strengthening
Throwing mechanics analysis

When is surgery needed?

For shoulder instability and significant symptoms, SLAP repair or biceps tenodesis depends on age.