SLAP Tear

SLAP tears can occur due to various factors, including acute trauma or repetitive stress on the shoulder joint. The most common causes include:

Repetitive Overhead Activities

Athletes who repeatedly perform overhead motions, such as throwing a baseball, swimming, or serving in tennis, are at higher risk for SLAP tears. These repetitive stresses place excessive strain on the labrum and biceps tendon, leading to wear and eventual tearing.

Sudden Trauma

A single traumatic event can cause a SLAP tear. Examples include falling onto an outstretched hand, a direct blow to the shoulder, or a sudden forceful pull on the arm, such as lifting a heavy object.

Aging

Over time, natural wear and tear of the shoulder joint can weaken the labrum, making it more susceptible to injury. Age-related degeneration is a common factor in SLAP tears, especially in individuals over 40.

High-Impact Sports and Activities

Sports that involve rapid or forceful shoulder movements, such as football or weightlifting, can contribute to the development of SLAP tears. The abrupt deceleration and acceleration of the arm during these activities place significant stress on the shoulder.

SLAP tears can cause a range of symptoms that vary depending on the severity of the injury. Common symptoms include:

Shoulder Pain

Pain is typically felt in the front or top of the shoulder and may worsen during overhead activities or when lifting objects. Some patients describe a deep, aching sensation within the joint.

Clicking or Popping Sensation

Many individuals report a clicking, popping, or catching sensation in the shoulder during movement. This is often indicative of labral instability.

Weakness

SLAP tears can lead to decreased shoulder strength, particularly when performing overhead or rotational movements. This weakness can significantly impact athletic performance or daily activities.

Limited Range of Motion

Patients may experience stiffness or difficulty moving the shoulder through its full range of motion. This limitation can interfere with reaching, throwing, or other functional tasks.

Instability

A feeling of looseness or instability in the shoulder joint is common, especially during dynamic movements. This symptom can be particularly concerning for athletes who rely on precise shoulder mechanics.

Night Pain

Discomfort that interferes with sleep is a frequent complaint, as lying on the affected shoulder often exacerbates symptoms.

Accurate diagnosis of SLAP tears is critical for effective treatment and recovery. Dr. Stephanie Boden utilizes a combination of detailed clinical evaluations, imaging studies, and diagnostic tools to identify the injury and develop a personalized treatment plan.

Medical History and Physical Examination

A thorough medical history helps pinpoint potential causes of the injury, such as specific sports activities or traumatic events. During the physical examination, Dr. Boden assesses the shoulder for tenderness, instability, and pain using specific tests designed to evaluate the labrum and biceps tendon integrity.

Imaging Studies

Imaging studies are essential for confirming the diagnosis of a SLAP tear. Common imaging modalities include:

• X-rays: While X-rays cannot visualize soft tissue injuries, they are helpful in ruling out bone abnormalities or other conditions that may cause shoulder pain.
• MRI: An MRI is the gold standard for diagnosing SLAP tears. When combined with contrast dye (MRI arthrogram), it provides detailed images of the labrum, biceps tendon, and surrounding structures.

Arthroscopic Evaluation

In some cases, arthroscopy is performed to definitively diagnose a SLAP tear. During this minimally invasive procedure, Dr. Boden uses a small camera inserted into the shoulder joint to directly visualize the labrum and assess the extent of the tear. Arthroscopy not only confirms the diagnosis but also allows for simultaneous treatment.