Ligament Tear Treatment on the Shoulder

What Do SLAP Tears Mean?

SLAP tears (Superior Labrum Anterior and Posterior) are injuries of the cartilage structure called the labrum, located in the shoulder joint. This injury usually occurs in the upper and front of the shoulder. SLAP tears can occur as a result of repetitive shoulder movements, falls, or trauma.

Signs and symptoms of SLAP tears may include:

1. Pain in the shoulder: People with a SLAP tear may experience pain in the shoulder area. The pain is usually concentrated in the front or upper part of the shoulder.

2. Shoulder instability: People with a SLAP tear may have a feeling of instability in the shoulder. This feeling may be more pronounced, especially in shoulder movements and load-bearing situations.

3. Weakness: People with a SLAP tear may have a decrease in the strength of their shoulder muscles. Weakness can affect daily activities.

4. Limitation of movement: People with SLAP tears may experience limited shoulder movements. Movements such as lifting weights or turning the shoulder, especially by pressing on the shoulder, may be limited.

5. Clicking sound in the shoulder: People with a SLAP tear may hear a clicking or crackling sound when the shoulder moves.

SLAP tears are usually diagnosed by an orthopedic surgeon. Diagnosis is usually made based on physical examination, imaging tests (eg, magnetic resonance imaging – MRI) and the patient's symptoms.

Treatment of SLAP tears usually begins with conservative methods, but surgical intervention may be required in some cases. Conservative treatment options include rest, physical therapy, pain management, and exercises. Surgical treatment is evaluated depending on the severity of the SLAP tear, symptoms, and the patient's needs.

Physical Therapy After SLAP Tears

Physical therapy after SLAP tears is important to accelerate the healing process of the shoulder and to restore its strength and range of motion. The physical therapy program includes stabilizing the shoulder, controlling pain, increasing muscle strength and functional rehabilitation after surgical intervention. Here are some methods applied in the physical therapy process after SLAP tears:

1. First stage: In the first weeks after surgery, immobilization (immobility) and the use of a shoulder brace may be required. The physical therapist may use treatment approaches such as ice application, compression and elevation (the RICE method) to reduce swelling and promote joint movement.

2. Gaining range of motion: The physiotherapist applies special exercises and mobilization techniques to regain the shoulder joint movements in the postoperative period. At this stage, different techniques such as passive movements (performed by the physiotherapist), active assisted movements (with the help of the patient), active free movements (the patient's own) can be used.

3. Muscle strengthening: Strengthening the muscles around the shoulder is important after a SLAP tear. The physical therapist strengthens the muscles with methods such as strengthening exercises and resistance bands. At this stage, it is aimed to strengthen especially the rotator cuff muscles and shoulder stabilizers.

4. Proprioceptive exercises: Proprioceptive exercises strengthen the communication between the shoulder joint and the body. These exercises improve balance and coordination and increase the functional stability of the shoulder. Exercises using special balance boards, balance pads or resistance bands can be used for this purpose.

5. Functional rehabilitation: In the postoperative period, the process of returning to daily life activities and sports is targeted. By creating a personalized rehabilitation program, the physiotherapist helps return to work, sports activities and regaining movement functions.

The physical therapy process may vary depending on the person's post-surgical condition, speed of recovery, and the doctor's recommendations. Your physiotherapist will create the appropriate treatment plan for you, monitor your recovery and update the program when necessary. It is important that the treatment program is implemented regularly and correctly.