That sudden catching or locking sensation in your shoulder isn’t something to ignore, especially if it’s paired with pain, weakness, or a feeling that your shoulder just doesn’t move the way it used to.
For many active adults and athletes, these symptoms point to a specific injury inside the joint called a SLAP tear.
At the practice of board-certified orthopedic shoulder surgeon Matthew Pifer, MD, people throughout Santa Barbara receive expert evaluation and treatment for complex shoulder injuries, including SLAP tears, with an emphasis on accurate diagnosis and personalized care.
SLAP stands for Superior Labrum Anterior to Posterior. The labrum is a ring of cartilage that lines the shoulder socket, helping stabilize the joint and keep the ball of the upper arm bone in place. A SLAP tear occurs at the top portion of this cartilage, where the biceps tendon attaches.
This type of tear often develops after a fall onto an outstretched arm, a sudden pulling injury, or repeated overhead motion.
It’s especially common in athletes who throw, lift, or swing, such as baseball players, swimmers, weightlifters, and tennis players. However, it can also affect people through everyday wear-and-tear.
SLAP tears don’t always cause severe pain in the beginning. Instead, many people notice symptoms that feel bothersome or limiting. Common signs include:
Because these symptoms can overlap with rotator cuff injuries or tendinitis, an accurate diagnosis is crucial.
The shoulder is a complex joint, and labral injuries don’t show up clearly on standard X-rays. Proper diagnosis often requires a detailed physical exam and advanced imaging, such as MRI, interpreted by a specialist who focuses on shoulder injuries.
Dr. Pifer’s fellowship training in orthopedic sports medicine and shoulder surgery allows him to pinpoint the source of shoulder dysfunction and explain what’s happening inside the joint, so patients understand both the problem and their options.
A SLAP tear doesn’t always require surgery. Many people improve with conservative care, including:
These options are designed to restore motion and strength without aggravating the injury. Dr. Pifer takes a conservative approach, recommending surgery only when non-surgical treatments fail to relieve symptoms or restore function.
If locking, pain, or instability continues to interfere with work, sports, or daily life, Dr. Pifer may recommend minimally invasive arthroscopic surgery.
This approach uses small incisions and specialized instruments to repair or address the torn labrum while preserving as much healthy tissue as possible.
Dr. Pifer also incorporates advanced techniques and, in select cases, biologic treatments such as platelet-rich plasma therapy to support healing and recovery.
When you start having shoulder issues like locking or catching, it’s wise to have it evaluated instead of trying to press on in pain. Ignoring it can lead to worsening pain, loss of strength, and long-term joint damage.
If shoulder pain or instability is holding you back, schedule a consultation with Matthew Pifer, MD.
With advanced training, cutting-edge technology, and a commitment to personalized care, Dr. Pifer and our team can help you regain strength and restore shoulder function, so that you can get back to doing what you love.
Call our Santa Barbara, California office today to request an appointment.
