uncommon shoulder injury - SLAP Injury
SLAP (Superior Labrum Anterior to Posterior) shoulder injuries are common among athletes engaged in overhead sports and activities. There are different grades to the injury, from level 1 (slight tissue damage) to 10 (high degrees of tears, and lesions) and it can easily come with bicep longhead tendinopathy.
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Causes and Symptoms:
SLAP shoulder injuries often result from repetitive overhead motions, such as throwing, serving, or swimming, as well as trauma or degenerative changes in the shoulder joint. Symptoms include shoulder pain, particularly with overhead movements, occasional popping sensations, and minor discomfort during daily activities.
Diagnosis:
Diagnosing a SLAP shoulder injury typically involves a physical examination and then confirmed through imaging tests like an MRI . These diagnostic tools help assess the extent of the labral injury and any associated damage to the surrounding structures.
Treatment:
Initially, conservative approaches including rest, ice, medications, and physical therapy aim to alleviate symptoms and improve shoulder strength and stability. Corticosteroid injections may be used to alleviate symptoms.
Rehabilitation: Rehabilitation plays a vital role in the recovery process for SLAP shoulder injuries. Physical therapy focuses on strengthening the shoulder muscles, improving range of motion, and restoring functional movement patterns. Gradual progression of exercises helps rebuild shoulder stability and confidence.
Practical rehab:
There are 2 positions that puts the SLAP area under stress because of the bicept long head’s role in stabilisation. Elbow is away from the body with bicep use. Elbow goes behind the body. This means to reduce stress limit the use of the arm by keeping it close by your side and to do an isometric exercise to stimulate tissue growth pull with your arm while your elbow’s away from your body for 10-30 at a time (using a position that has no pain).
Prevention:
Preventing SLAP shoulder injuries involves proper biomechanics, shoulder conditioning, and injury prevention strategies. Athletes can reduce their risk by incorporating shoulder-strengthening exercises, maintaining proper technique during sports activities, and avoiding overuse. Additionally, implementing rest periods and listening to the body's signals can help prevent repetitive stress injuries.
Conclusion:
SLAP shoulder injuries are common among athletes engaged in overhead sports and activities, impacting performance and daily function. Recognizing the causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention strategies for SLAP shoulder injuries is essential for athletes, coaches, and healthcare professionals. By implementing proper shoulder conditioning, biomechanical awareness, and injury prevention strategies, athletes can reduce their risk of SLAP shoulder and continue to perform at their best while maintaining shoulder health.
