SLAP Tear (Labral Tear)

 

Specialist Shoulder Assessment and Treatment in Rochdale

 

A SLAP tear is a type of injury to the labrum of the shoulder and can cause pain, clicking, weakness or a feeling of instability. It is commonly seen in active individuals and overhead athletes but can also occur with everyday injuries or wear and tear.

Mr Robin Seagger is a fellowship-trained shoulder surgeon in Rochdale, specialising in the assessment and treatment of SLAP tears and other labral injuries of the shoulder.

 

 

What is a SLAP tear?

 

The labrum is a ring of cartilage that lines the socket of the shoulder joint, helping to deepen the socket and stabilise the joint.

 

A SLAP tear (Superior Labrum Anterior to Posterior) involves damage to the top part of the labrum where the biceps tendon attaches.

 

SLAP tears can occur:

 

• After a fall onto an outstretched arm

• Following a sudden pulling or lifting injury

• In overhead sports such as throwing or swimming

• Gradually through wear and tear over time

 

 

Common symptoms

 

Symptoms of a SLAP tear may include:

 

• Deep shoulder pain, particularly with overhead or twisting movements

• Clicking, popping or catching sensations in the shoulder

• Weakness or reduced performance with lifting or throwing

• A feeling of instability or lack of confidence in the shoulder

• Pain that may be difficult to localise

 

Symptoms can vary significantly between individuals.

 

 

How is a SLAP tear diagnosed?

 

Diagnosis is based on:

 

• A detailed history of symptoms and activity level

• Clinical examination of the shoulder

• MRI or MR arthrogram to assess the labrum and biceps tendon

• X-rays to rule out associated bony problems

 

SLAP tears can be difficult to diagnose, and it is important to correlate scan findings with symptoms.

 

 

Is surgery always needed?

 

No. Many SLAP tears can be managed without surgery, particularly in older patients or those without significant instability.

 

Non-surgical treatment may include:

 

• Physiotherapy to improve shoulder mechanics and strength

• Activity modification

• Pain-relieving or anti-inflammatory medication

• Targeted injections in selected cases

 

A period of structured rehabilitation is often recommended before considering surgery.

 

 

When is surgery considered?

 

Surgery may be considered when:

 

• Symptoms persist despite appropriate non-surgical treatment

• Shoulder function is significantly limited

• The tear is associated with instability

• The patient has high functional or sporting demands

 

Surgical options may include:

 

• Arthroscopic repair of the labrum

• Biceps tendon procedures in selected cases

 

The most appropriate treatment depends on age, activity level, type of tear and associated shoulder pathology.

 

 

Why see a specialist shoulder surgeon?

 

Labral injuries require careful assessment to avoid unnecessary or inappropriate surgery.

Mr Robin Seagger completed additional fellowship training specifically in shoulder surgery after qualifying as an orthopaedic surgeon.

 

His practice is focused almost entirely on shoulder conditions, allowing:

 

• Accurate diagnosis of labral pathology

• Individualised treatment planning

• Use of modern arthroscopic techniques

• Integration of surgery with structured rehabilitation

 

This specialist approach helps optimise outcomes and shoulder function.

 

 

Local specialist shoulder care in Rochdale

 

Mr Seagger treats patients from Rochdale, Bury, Oldham, Heywood and North Manchester, offering specialist shoulder care locally without the need to travel into central Manchester.

 

Consultations and surgery take place at The Highfield Hospital, Rochdale, with access to imaging, physiotherapy and comprehensive aftercare.

 

 

Arrange a consultation

 

If you are experiencing persistent shoulder pain, clicking or loss of function, a specialist assessment can help determine whether a SLAP tear or another shoulder condition is the cause and discuss the most appropriate treatment options.