Over the years, I’ve treated many cricketers with shoulder problems. One injury I see often is the SLAP tear. It’s tricky because at first, the pain is mild, and many players ignore it. But left untreated, it can seriously affect bowling, throwing, or even simple fielding.

Let me explain from my experience.

What exactly is a SLAP Tear?

SLAP stands for Superior Labrum Anterior to Posterior. The labrum is a ring of cartilage that keeps your shoulder stable. When it tears, your shoulder feels weak, sometimes painful, and can even pop or click.

I remember a fast bowler who came to me complaining about a strange popping in his shoulder. He had been bowling long hours, and a few dives in the field didn’t help. Turns out, he had a SLAP tear.

Why Cricketers Get Them

From what I’ve seen, the main reasons are:

• Overuse: Fast bowlers putting their shoulders through thousands of deliveries.
• Impact injuries: Diving for a catch or falling awkwardly.
• Previous shoulder issues: Players with past dislocations are more prone.
• Not enough rest: Long practice sessions without recovery weaken shoulder muscles.

Even a small tear can feel frustrating if ignored. That bowler I mentioned? He couldn’t bowl at full speed until we treated it.

Signs I Look For

When cricketers come to me, I ask about:

• Popping or clicking when throwing or bowling.
• Pain overhead, like when bowling, catching, or batting.
• Weakness or looseness in the shoulder.
• Limited range of motion—not being able to lift the arm fully.

If you notice these, it’s important to see a SLAP tear specialist in Mumbai sooner rather than later.

How We Diagnose

I combine a hands-on check with imaging:

Tips:

• Physical tests for strength and stability.
• MRI for SLAP lesion to see the tear clearly.
• Special maneuvers to confirm the problem.

Accurate diagnosis makes treatment much smoother.

Treating a SLAP Tear – Non-Surgical Approach

For mild cases, I usually recommend:

• Rest and avoid painful movements.
• Physiotherapy to strengthen supporting muscles.
• Anti-inflammatory medications to ease discomfort.

Many players improve this way, but if pain continues or the shoulder feels unstable, surgery is often the best option.

Surgical Approach

For more serious tears, shoulder arthroscopy for SLAP tears works very well. In my experience, it allows me to:

• Repair the torn labrum.
• Remove loose fragments.
• Restore shoulder stability so players can return to cricket safely.

Recovery takes about 4–6 months. I guide every patient carefully, step by step. I’ve seen bowlers come back stronger than before after following the rehab plan properly.

Choosing the Right Specialist

Shoulder injuries in cricket aren’t just about surgery. A shoulder surgery specialist in Mumbai ensures proper diagnosis, personalized treatment, and rehab tailored for cricket players.

FAQs

Q: What are the signs of a SLAP tear in cricketers?
A: Pain with overhead throws, popping or clicking, weakness, instability, and limited motion.

Q: Can SLAP tears heal without surgery?
A: Mild tears sometimes heal with rest and physiotherapy. Persistent or severe tears usually need surgery.
Over the years, I’ve seen how early care can save players from long-term problems. If your shoulder hurts, don’t wait. Early treatment can get you back on the field faster, stronger, and pain-free.