What we treat Shoulder
Labral Tear (SLAP Tear)
A SLAP tear (Superior Labrum Anterior to Posterior) is an injury to the cartilage ring that surrounds your shoulder socket. This structure, the labrum, stabilizes the shoulder joint and provides an anchor for the long head of the biceps tendon. Tears can occur through repetitive overhead motions or sudden trauma, leading to deep shoulder pain and a sensation of instability.
Signs to Look For
A persistent, dull ache felt deep within the shoulder joint that is difficult to pinpoint.
Noticeable mechanical sensations like clicking, grinding, or catching during overhead movements.
Sudden weakness when lifting objects or a significant decrease in athletic performance and velocity.
The sensation that the shoulder is 'giving out/way' or is not properly seated in the shoulder socket.
In-Depth Clinical Evaluation
Physiotherapists utilize a specialized set of orthopedic tests to accurately identify a labral tear. By assessing clicking, grinding, and specific mechanical pain patterns, we can differentiate your symptoms from common rotator cuff issues or simple strains.
- O'Brien’s (Active Compression) Test
- Crank & Clunk Assessment
- Biceps Load II Test
- Speed’s Test
- Shoulder Range of Motion Analysis
Our Treatment Approach to Fix It
We employ a comprehensive, three-phase recovery strategy designed to eliminate pain, restore stability, and return you to peak functional performance. By combining manual techniques with targeted strengthening, we address the root cause of your SLAP tear.
Utilizing manual therapy and dry needling to settle inflammation and restore passive range of motion.
Focused strengthening to ensure the shoulder blade and deep stabilizing muscles provide a stable foundation.
Progression to sport-specific movements and dynamic loading to prevent future injury.
Exercises to Start With
Pendulums - Lean forward and support your weight with your non-injured arm. Let the injured arm hang down and swing it gently in small circles.
Scap Squeezes - Sit or stand tall. Squeeze your shoulder blades together and down, as if trying to put them in your back pockets. Hold for 5 seconds.
Shoulder isometrics - Stand with your elbow at a 90-degree angle. Press the back of your hand into a wall without moving your shoulder. Hold for 10 seconds.
Tell us what you want to return to?
This page is general information, not a diagnosis. If it sounds like what you have, an evaluation is where we find out properly.