Bone and Joint Clinic of Baton Rouge
Bone & Joint Staff • November 27, 2023
Shoulder SLAP Tear Overview: What is a SLAP tear?

Shoulder pain is one of the most common complaints among adults, with approximately 25% of individuals experiencing it at some point in their lives. It can be caused by a variety of factors, including injury, overuse, and underlying medical conditions. One specific type of shoulder injury that is becoming increasingly recognized is the Superior Labrum, Anterior to Posterior (SLAP) tear, or labrum tear. These types of injuries are responsible for 4% to 8% of all shoulder injuries and can cause significant pain and discomfort, as well as a decrease in range of motion and overall quality of life.


The "L" in SLAP refers to the glenoid labrum, a crucial component in shoulder stability. It cushions the upper arm bone and connects the shoulder blade socket to a bicep tendon. When the top part of the labrum tears, the upper arm bone loses its cushioning, and the bicep tendon loses its connection, causing shoulder pain and instability. These tears can happen gradually over time or due to acute injury, often occurring in sports or activities that involve repetitive overhead motion.


What are the Causes and Symptoms of SLAP Tears?

SLAP tears stem from chronic injuries in sports or activities requiring overhead motion, acute injuries from falls or sudden movements, or natural wear and tear associated with aging. Symptoms include persistent shoulder pain, discomfort during specific movements, popping sensations, and a feeling of shoulder instability.


Diagnosis and Treatment Options for SLAP Tears

To confirm the diagnosis, they typically perform a physical examination to evaluate the range of motion, strength, and stability of the shoulder joint. Imaging tests like MRIs can also provide a clearer picture of the extent and location of the tear.


Once the diagnosis has been confirmed, healthcare providers consider various factors to determine whether surgery is necessary. Tear classification, age, and activity level are among the key factors that can influence the decision to recommend surgery. For instance, a younger patient with an active lifestyle may require surgery to repair a severe tear that affects their ability to perform daily tasks or participate in sports. On the other hand, an older patient with a less severe tear may be able to manage their symptoms with non-surgical treatments like physical therapy or corticosteroid injections. Previous treatments and the patient's overall health also play a role in the decision-making process.


Types of SLAP Tears

There are different types and subtypes of SLAP tears, but Type 2 is the most common. This type involves a tear in the labrum and bicep tendon from the shoulder socket, resulting in shoulder pain, instability, and weakness. It is important to receive a proper diagnosis and treatment for this type of injury, which may include physical therapy, medication, or surgery.


What are treatment options for SLAP tears?

Depending on the severity of a SLAP tear, the recommended treatment may vary. Rest and physical therapy can be enough to help the tear heal in some cases. This approach involves avoiding activities that aggravate the shoulder, performing exercises to strengthen the muscles surrounding the shoulder joint, and taking over-the-counter pain relievers as needed. However, if the tear is severe or does not respond to conservative treatment, surgery may be necessary. During surgery, the torn labrum is reattached to the bone using sutures or anchors, which can help improve shoulder stability and reduce pain. The best course of treatment for a SLAP tear depends on multiple factors, including the patient's age, activity level, overall health, and the severity of the tear. Neglected SLAP tears may worsen and lead to chronic shoulder pain and reduced arm mobility. It can take anywhere from six months to a year to recover from a SLAP tear.


SLAP tear treatment requires patience and thorough rehabilitation. Seeking assistance for any difficulties, including emotional challenges during recovery, is essential for a comprehensive recovery plan. The expert staff of orthopedists and shoulder specialists at Bone and Joint Clinic of Baton Rouge are here to help. If you have a shoulder injury it’s important to see an experienced doctor treat your injury and get you back in action.

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By Bone and Joint Clinic Staff April 1, 2025
BATON ROUGE, LA, January 30, 2025 – Effective April 1, 2025, four distinguished orthopedic surgeons from The Bone and Joint Clinic of Baton Rouge will transition to Baton Rouge Orthopedic Clinic (BROC), continuing their commitment to providing high-quality orthopedic care. The physicians joining BROC are: 1. Joseph "Jeb" Broyles, MD – Specializes in joint replacement surgery, knee arthroscopy, and cartilage regeneration. 2. Arthur "Art" Hess, MD – Specializes in trauma, hip, knee, and shoulder reconstruction, and total joint replacement surgery. 3. Mat hew "Matt" Mazoch, M D – Specializes in shoulder and knee surgery. 4. Alan Schroeder, MD – Specializes in sports medicine and shoulder surgery. Beginning April 1, 2025, these physicians will operate under BROC's umbrella while continuing to see patients at The Bone and Joint Clinic of Baton Rouge's current location, 7301 Hennessy Blvd. Eventually, the doctors plan to transition to BROC's campus on Bluebonnet Blvd. The estimated timeline for that move is Summer/Fall 2025. In addition, Dr. Patrick Hall will be transitioning to his own practice, Hall Podiatry, that will continue to provide quality podiatric care to patients. Dr. Hall will continue to practice at 7301 Hennessy Blvd. until May/June 2025. After that date, patients may see him at a new nearby location. Dr. Christopher Belleau is transitioning to The Neuromedical Center in Baton Rouge.  Patients are encouraged to continue scheduling appointments at The Bone and Joint Clinic of Baton Rouge using the current process for the foreseeable future. To ensure a seamless transition, The Bone and Joint Clinic of Baton Rouge will provide detailed information to patients in the coming weeks, including the secure transfer of medical records and continuity of care. The health and well-being of patients remain the top priority, and The Bone and Joint Clinic of Baton Rouge, BROC, and Hall Podiatry are working together to make this transition as smooth as possible while maintaining uninterrupted care. For more information or to schedule an appointment, patients can contact The Bone and Joint Clinic of Baton Rouge at 225-766-0050 or by visiting bjcbr.com . Patients can also reach BROC at 225-924-2424 or by visiting brortho.com .
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