The labrum in the glenohumeral joint in the shoulder is necessary to support and cushion this important ball-and-socket joint. When the labrum is damaged, it can cause pain, weakness and loss of range of motion for the shoulder and arm. One type of shoulder joint injury is a labrum SLAP tear, which can be caused by trauma or repetitive use. Dr. Steven Struhl offers labrum SLAP tear treatment at his AC joint separation clinics in New York and Westchester, NY.
A labrum SLAP tear is an injury to a specific area of the labrum. SLAP stands for superior labrum anterior and posterior, which indicates the labrum tear is in two different areas. In a labrum SLAP tear, the labrum is torn at the anterior, or front, and the posterior, or back. This is where the labrum is attached to the biceps tendon. The tear can occur from trauma, such as falling on an outstretched arm. Repetitive overhead arm use or strain can also cause a labrum SLAP tear, as can wear or tear in older adults. Symptoms include:
- Reduced range of motion in the shoulder
- Weakness in the shoulder
- Shoulder pain when performing overhead tasks
- Grinding or catching in the shoulder
- Shoulder joint feels unstable
Mild labrum SLAP tears can be treated with conservative methods including rest, NSAIDs and physical therapy. More severe injuries may require medical treatment by a shoulder joint specialist.
Labrum Tear Surgery Specialist
When conservative treatments are not effective in repairing a labrum SLAP tear, surgery may be recommended. Dr. Steven Struhl is a shoulder joint specialist who can perform diagnostic testing and offer treatment for labrum tears. If surgery is necessary, Dr. Struhl is one of the top orthopedic surgeons in New York, specializing in shoulder joint injuries and conditions, including labrum SLAP tears.
If you need a labrum SLAP surgery specialist or want to explore treatment options for your shoulder injury, contact the office of Dr. Steven Struhl. We have clinics in New York City and Westchester for your convenience.
