What it is

SLAP repair addresses tears of the superior labrum where the long head of the biceps anchors. The procedure reattaches the labrum and may include biceps tenodesis in selected cases. The goal is to reduce deep pain and restore stability for overhead tasks.

Rehabilitation protects the repair and rebuilds control at the end range for throwers and overhead workers.

What happens when it occurs

Anchors secure the labrum. Early motion is limited to protect the repair. Strength and control progress in arcs that avoid peel-back stress. Throwing and overhead lifting resume through a staged programme.

Common causes and risk factors

  • Falls, on the other hand, traction injuries, and repetitive overhead sports
  • Poor scapular control and external rotation weakness
  • High training volumes without deload weeks

Who is most affected

Throwers, overhead lifters, and contact athletes.

Typical symptoms pre op

  • Deep shoulder pain with clicking or catching
  • Loss of power during throwing or pressing
  • Pain with overhead reach

When to seek care

If deep pain and catching persist in overhead roles despite good rehabilitation.

How we diagnose

History and examination, often accompanied by an MRI arthrogram, are used to define the lesion. Tests also screen for cuff and instability.

Management

  • Sling and protected motion early
  • Strength for the cuff and scapula with graded exposure to the end range
  • Interval throwing or overhead programme with technique coaching
  • Biceps loading progressed in line with surgical instructions

Rehabilitation milestones

Phase 1 weeks 0 to 4: sling, passive range in safe arcs.

Phase 2, weeks 4 to 8: active range, light strength without biceps traction.

Phase 3 months 2 to 4: progressive strength, begin interval throwing.

Phase 4 months 4 to 6: sport-specific power and return after testing.

Readiness to progress

  • Low pain in end range positions
  • Strength symmetry within 90 per cent
  • Throwing steps completed without the next day flare

Long-term care

  • Manage season volumes with deloads
  • Maintain external rotator and scapular strength
  • Refine the technique for throwing and overhead lifting

Australia snapshot

  • Seen in cricket, baseball, water polo, tennis, and CrossFit communities
  • Arthroscopic repair and tenodesis options are widely available
  • Sports rehabilitation services support a staged return

Latest insights

End-range control is the deciding skill for overhead sports.

Biceps load is reintroduced with care to protect the repair.

Frequently Asked Questions

Considered when biceps involvement is significant or in older athletes. Your surgeon weighs goals and tissue quality.

Usually, after two to three months, you begin an interval programme, with full return closer to four to six months.

Often improves as stability and strength return.

Often used for diagnosis and planning.