Slap Tears
Specialized Care for SLAP Tears of the Shoulder
Shoulder pain that will not go away, catching, or a feeling that your shoulder is unstable can make everyday activities and sports difficult. If you have been told you might have a SLAP tear or you suspect an injury inside your shoulder, you need clear answers and a focused plan.
At Upper Extremity ATX, we focus on the upper-extremity-only, including advanced care for the shoulder. Led by fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeon Travis Doering, MD, we evaluate SLAP tears and related shoulder problems with the goal of helping you return to the activities that matter most to you, with less pain and more confidence in your shoulder.
How Focused Shoulder Care Can Help You
A SLAP tear involves the labrum at the top of the shoulder socket, which can affect how stable and comfortable your shoulder feels. These injuries are common in people who play overhead or throwing sports, lift weights, or have a fall or traction injury to the arm. While many shoulder issues are not related to nerves, they can still significantly limit motion and function if not addressed appropriately.
At Upper Extremity ATX, your evaluation is focused on understanding where your pain comes from, what motions or activities make it worse, and how it affects your daily life. From there, we discuss appropriate treatment options, which may include non-surgical and, in some cases, surgical procedures when indicated.
You can expect thoughtful, upper-extremity-focused care that aims to help you:
What to Expect During Your SLAP Tear Evaluation
Your visit starts with a detailed conversation about your symptoms, how the injury occurred, and what you are currently able or unable to do with your shoulder. A focused physical exam of the shoulder follows, which may include specific tests that help identify pain patterns and mechanical symptoms. Most shoulder problems, including many SLAP tears, are not primarily nerve problems, which are more often found in the wrist or hand, so the exam is tailored to the shoulder joint and surrounding structures.
Imaging studies may be reviewed or recommended when appropriate. Once we have a clearer picture of what is happening inside your shoulder, we discuss reasonable options for care. This discussion may include activity modification, therapy, medications as directed by other providers, or possible surgical solutions when appropriate. You have time to ask questions so you can understand what each option might mean for your recovery and daily routine.
A Thoughtful Approach to Treatment Options
SLAP tears are not all the same, and treatment is not one-size-fits-all. Your age, activity level, shoulder stability, history of injuries, and goals all play a role in which options are reasonable to consider. Some people may do well with focused non-surgical management, while others may be candidates to discuss surgical procedures intended to improve stability or reduce mechanical pain.
At Upper Extremity ATX, we take the time to explain the potential benefits and limitations of different approaches in clear, straightforward terms. The goal is to help you weigh your options so you can choose a path that matches your priorities, whether that is getting back to recreational sports, work demands, or simply reaching and lifting comfortably in daily life.
Why Patients Turn to Upper Extremity ATX for Shoulder Care
Upper Extremity ATX is dedicated solely to the upper extremity, including the hand, wrist, elbow, and shoulder. This focused scope allows us to keep attention on the specific issues that affect these joints and structures. With fellowship training in upper-extremity surgery, Dr. Travis Doering brings advanced, specialized perspective to both surgical and non-surgical problems in the shoulder.
Patients are treated with a straightforward, honest approach. We explain findings in plain language, discuss reasonable options without pressure, and respect your role in deciding how to proceed. Whether you are an athlete, a worker with a shoulder injury, or someone who simply wants to lift, reach, and sleep more comfortably, our aim is to provide clear information and thoughtful care for your SLAP tear or other shoulder condition.
Schedule Expert Care For Your SLAP Tear Today
If you are dealing with shoulder pain or suspect a labral injury, we encourage you to explore how we diagnose and treat slap tears at Upper Extremity ATX. To discuss your symptoms, treatment options, or next steps, please contact us so we can help you get back to the activities you enjoy.
Upper Extremity ATX — Fellowship-trained hand, upper extremity, and peripheral nerve surgery. Located at the Austin Surgical Plaza – 6818 Austin Center Blvd, Suite 207, Austin TX. Better care, by design.
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