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SLAP Tear Treatment in Glen Iris

Physiotherapy for SLAP tears and shoulder labrum injuries — conservative and post-surgical rehab in Glen Iris.

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Suffering From SLAP Tear in Glen Iris?

A SLAP (Superior Labrum Anterior and Posterior) tear is an injury to the shoulder’s labrum, a ring of fibrous tissue that deepens the glenoid socket and stabilizes the joint. The labrum also serves as an attachment point for the biceps tendon. In a SLAP injury, the superior part of the labrum, where the biceps tendon attaches, is damaged. The tear extends from the front (anterior) to the back (posterior) of this attachment point, often involving the biceps tendon itself. This compromise in labral integrity disrupts shoulder stability and the biceps tendon’s connection, leading to pain, instability, and restricted movement. While some SLAP tears respond to conservative treatments like rest and physical therapy, others may require surgery.

patient shoulder getting diagnosed

Common Symptoms & Causes Of SLAP Tear

  • Pain and discomfort related to SLAP Tear
  • Reduced range of motion and flexibility
  • Muscle weakness or imbalance
  • Difficulty with daily activities or sport
  • Swelling or inflammation in the affected area

Our SLAP Tear Treatment Approach

Every patient is different. We start with a thorough assessment to understand exactly what’s causing your pain — then build a personalised treatment plan around your goals, lifestyle, and timeline.

  • Acute Injury Management: RICE protocol and load protection to control swelling and protect the injured tissue.
  • Manual Therapy & Soft Tissue Release: Hands-on treatment to reduce calf muscle tension and restore flexibility.
  • Progressive Calf Loading: Evidence-based eccentric and isometric loading program to rebuild calf strength.
  • Neuromuscular Control Training: Balance and coordination exercises to restore calf function and prevent re-injury.
  • Running & Sport-Specific Rehabilitation: Graded return-to-running and sport-specific drills.
  • Return-to-Sport Testing: Strength symmetry and functional testing before clearance to return to full training.

In-Clinic & In-Home Available

We treat patients both at our Glen Iris clinic and in the comfort of your own home — ideal for patients who find it difficult to travel.

NDIS Participants Welcome — We work with self-managed and plan-managed NDIS participants. Contact us to discuss your funding options.

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Frequently Asked Questions

A SLAP (Superior Labrum Anterior Posterior) tear is an injury to the ring of cartilage (labrum) that surrounds the shoulder socket. It often results from acute trauma like falling on an outstretched arm, or repetitive overhead activities common in sports such as throwing.
Patients typically experience a deep, aching pain in the shoulder, especially with overhead movements or lifting. Other symptoms can include clicking, popping, or grinding sensations, a feeling of instability, and decreased range of motion or strength.
Many SLAP tears, particularly those not involving significant instability or detachment, can be effectively managed with conservative treatment. This includes a structured physiotherapy program focused on pain reduction, strengthening, and restoring shoulder mechanics.
Recovery timelines vary based on the tear’s severity and individual response to treatment. With consistent and expert physiotherapy, significant improvement can often be seen within 6-12 weeks, though full return to high-level activities may take several months.
Rehabilitation focuses on a progressive program including gentle range-of-motion exercises, scapular stabilization, rotator cuff strengthening, and neuromuscular control drills. These are carefully advanced to restore full function and prevent re-injury.
Return to sport is a gradual process guided by specific criteria, not just time. It involves achieving full pain-free range of motion, adequate strength, and successful completion of sport-specific drills and plyometrics, ensuring the shoulder is robust enough for activity demands.

Ready to Get Started?

Book an appointment for slap tear treatment at our Glen Iris clinic today.

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Or call us: (03) 9999 7271