SLAP Tear Rehab & Recovery

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SLAP Tear Rehab & Recovery

What Is a SLAP Tear?

A SLAP tear refers to an injury of the labrum in the shoulder joint. The labrum is a ring of cartilage that helps stabilise the shoulder. “SLAP” stands forSuperior Labrum Anterior to Posterior, describing the location of the tear.

This type of injury is commonly seen in:

  • overhead sports (e.g. tennis, swimming)

  • gym-related strain

  • trauma such as falls or shoulder dislocation

Symptoms may include:

  • deep shoulder pain

  • clicking or catching sensation

  • reduced strength or stability

  • discomfort during overhead movement



Do All SLAP Tears Require Surgery?

Not all SLAP tears require surgery. In many cases, especially for less severe tears, physiotherapy is the first line of treatment.

Surgery is typically considered when:

  • symptoms persist despite conservative treatment

  • there is significant instability

  • the tear affects daily function or performance

Even when surgery is required, rehabilitation remains a critical part of recovery.


SLAP Tear Recovery Timeline

Without Surgery

  • Initial phase: pain management and reducing inflammation

  • Mid phase: restoring mobility and range of motion

  • Later phase: strengthening and functional movement

Typical recovery can range from 6 to 12 weeks, depending on consistency and severity.


After Surgery (SLAP Repair)

SLAP Tear Rehab Timeline

Role of Physiotherapy in SLAP Tear Recovery

Physiotherapy focuses on restoring shoulder stability, strength of surrounding muscles and proper movement patterns to prevent future injuries. 

A structured rehab programme helps:

  • reduce pain

  • prevent further injury

  • improve long-term function

Importantly, physiotherapy is not just about exercises. It also involves:

  • guided progression

  • correcting movement patterns

  • ensuring the shoulder is not overloaded too early


Common Mistakes That Delay Recovery

Recovery is often prolonged due to avoidable factors.

Returning to activity too early

Pushing the shoulder before it is ready can worsen the injury.

Skipping structured rehab

Doing random exercises without progression often leads to incomplete recovery.


Ignoring underlying movement issues

If the cause of the injury is not addressed, symptoms may return.


When Should You Start Physiotherapy?

For most SLAP tears, physiotherapy can begin early, once pain is manageable and the condition has been assessed.

If surgery is performed, physiotherapy typically starts:

  • shortly after the initial healing phase

  • under guided progression

Early and structured intervention often leads to:

  • faster recovery

  • better long-term outcomes


Supporting Recovery After Orthopaedic Care

SLAP tears are often diagnosed by orthopaedic specialists. Physiotherapy works alongside this by supporting recovery after diagnosis or surgery.

The goal is to guide patients safely through each stage of rehabilitation, ensuring that the shoulder regains strength, control, and stability over time.


About MoveMed Physiotherapy Singapore

At MoveMed, we support your recovery through purposeful movement.

Our professionally trained physiotherapists at Novena and Orchard provide tailored sessions in a well-equipped facility—featuring treatment beds, shockwave therapy machines and more —to help you regain strength, mobility, and confidence.

Whether it’s pre-op rehab, pain management or post-op rehab, our team is here to guide your journey every step of the way. 

📍(Orchard) Movemed Physiotherapy, 391B Orchard Road Ngee Ann City Office Tower B. #25-03 Singapore 238874 

📍(Novena) MoveMed Physiotherapy, 10 Sinaran Dr, #09-04, Novena Medical Center, Singapore 307506

 🌐www.movemedsg.com

 📞 Call / WhatsApp: +65 9627 2000
📧 Email: hello@movemedsg.com









Regain control. Move better. Live stronger.

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