✨ What is a SLAP Tear?

A SLAP tear is an injury to the top part of the labrum (cartilage rim) from front to back—a ring of cartilage that surrounds the shoulder socket. It plays an important role in shoulder stability and is a key anchor point for the long head of the biceps tendon.

SLAP tears are broadly classified as either traumatic or degenerative:

• Traumatic SLAP tears typically result from sudden forces such as a fall onto an outstretched arm, a traction injury, or a sudden pull on the biceps. These are more common in younger, active individuals.
• Degenerative SLAP tears are more common in people over 35–40 years of age and usually develop gradually due to wear and tear from repetitive overhead activity, poor mechanics, or age-related changes in the labrum.

Common causes include:

• Repetitive overhead activity (e.g. swimming, throwing)
• Sudden trauma (e.g. fall onto an outstretched arm)
• Heavy lifting or biceps loading injuries

There are several types of SLAP tears (I to IV), with different levels of damage to the labrum and biceps anchor. Type II is the most common one requiring surgery.

🎯 When is SLAP Repair Recommended?

Not all SLAP tears need surgery, and many improve with structured rehabilitation. However, whether surgery is needed often depends on the type and severity of the tear:

• Traumatic SLAP tears—caused by sudden injuries such as falls or forceful traction—are more likely to be symptomatic and unstable, particularly in younger or athletic individuals. These are more often considered for surgical repair.
• Degenerative SLAP tears—which develop gradually with age or repetitive overhead activity—may be better managed with conservative physiotherapy or, in some cases, a biceps tenodesis, especially in patients over 35–40.

In general, surgery may be considered if any of the following apply:

• Pain persists after 3–6 months of structured rehabilitation
• You’re a young, active person who relies on overhead function (e.g. athletes, tradespeople)
• The tear is unstable or involves the biceps anchor and is not responding to non-surgical care

⚖️ SLAP Repair vs. Biceps Tenodesis

In patients over 35–40 years old, or those not needing high overhead function, a biceps tenodesis may be preferred. This involves detaching the biceps from the labrum and reattaching it elsewhere—often giving better outcomes in older patients.

SLAP repair, in contrast, aims to preserve and re-anchor the labrum and biceps tendon.

✂️ What Happens During SLAP Repair Surgery?

• Performed arthroscopically (keyhole surgery)
• Anchors and sutures are used to reattach the torn labrum to the socket
• May take 1–2 hours, under general anaesthetic

You’ll usually go home the same day with your arm in a sling.

🏡 How to Prepare for Surgery

• Prehab exercises to maintain ROM (within pain-free range)
• Arrange help at home for the first few weeks
• Optimise your sleep, diet, and stress levels
• Take time off work depending on your job demands

🌊 SLAP Repair Recovery Timeline

Weeks 0–4: Protection Phase

• Sling worn most of the time (except hygiene)
• Passive range of motion only (guided by physio)
• Avoid lifting, pushing, or pulling

Weeks 4–8: Early Mobilisation

• Begin active-assisted and active ROM
• Sling weaned off
• Gentle isometric strengthening may begin

Weeks 8–12: Strengthening Phase

• Progress to isotonic resistance exercises
• Focus on scapular control and rotator cuff activation

Months 3–6: Return to Function

• Gradual return to work, sport, or overhead activity
• Sport-specific drills and dynamic strengthening

Full return to high-level sport may take 6–9 months.

⚠️ Complications to Be Aware Of

• Shoulder stiffness (especially if rehab is delayed)
• Biceps irritation or pain
• Anchor-related discomfort
• Re-tear or incomplete healing (more likely in overhead athletes)

📈 SLAP Repair vs. SLAP Tear Rehab: What’s the Difference?

SLAP tear rehab (non-operative) focuses on:

• Reducing irritation
• Improving shoulder mechanics
• Strengthening the rotator cuff and scapular muscles

SLAP repair rehab needs to respect surgical healing timelines, particularly avoiding tension on the repaired labrum/biceps in the early phase.

💪 Physiotherapy: Your Recovery Partner

Your physio will guide:

• Individualised progressions based on healing
• Range of motion targets
• Safe and effective return to work/sport

We work closely with surgeons to align on protocols and respond to any complications early.

🛏️ Sleeping Tips After Surgery

• Sleep semi-reclined in a recliner or with pillows behind your back
• Support your elbow on a cushion to offload the shoulder
• Avoid lying flat in the first few weeks

❓ FAQ: When Will I Feel Normal Again?

• Driving: Usually around 6–8 weeks
• Desk work: 1–2 weeks if non-dominant side
• Manual work: 10–16 weeks depending on demands
• Sport: 4–6 months for general; 6–9 months for overhead athletes

Remember: healing isn’t linear. Flare-ups are common and not a setback if managed well.

💬 Still Have Questions About Your Recovery?

At Melbourne Shoulder Rehab, we specialise in complex shoulder injuries and post-surgical rehab. Whether you’re preparing for a SLAP repair or are weeks into recovery and not progressing as expected, we can help get you back on track.

👉 Book an appointment today to get expert advice and tailored rehabilitation to support your recovery journey.