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Slap Lesion
Understanding, Diagnosing, & Treating
Slap Lesion
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Slap Lesion
A SLAP lesion is an injury to the labrum, a ring of cartilage that helps stabilise the shoulder joint.
The labrum plays an important role in shoulder stability and movement. Damage can occur due to repetitive overhead activity, heavy lifting, falls, or sports injuries.
This can lead to pain, weakness, clicking sensations and reduced shoulder function.
Signs & Symptoms of Slap Lesion
Symptoms can vary depending on severity and may range from a dull ache to sharp pain during certain movements.
Symptoms to watch out for include:
- Shoulder pain
- Clicking or popping sensations
- Weakness in the shoulder
- Reduced shoulder stability
- Pain when lifting or reaching overhead
- Difficulty sleeping on the affected side
- Reduced sporting performance in overhead activities
What Can Cause Slap Lesion?
SLAP lesions are commonly caused by repetitive overhead movements, such as throwing or lifting, as well as acute trauma.
Common causes include sports involving throwing, heavy lifting, falls onto an outstretched arm, or direct impact to the shoulder. Degenerative changes in the shoulder can also contribute over time.
Treatment Options For Slap Lesion
Treatment focuses on improving shoulder stability, reducing pain and restoring normal movement and function.
Treatment may include:
- Progressive strengthening of the rotator cuff and shoulder stabilisers
- Core and upper limb control exercises
- Manual therapy where appropriate
- Temporary modification or avoidance of aggravating overhead activity
- Stretching and mobility work for the shoulder capsule where needed
- Gradual return-to-sport or overhead activity programme
- Post-operative rehabilitation if surgery is required
At Balanced Physiotherapy, we will assess your shoulder, identify the underlying cause of your symptoms and create a personalised rehabilitation programme to restore strength, improve stability and support a safe return to work, sport and daily activity.
