Shoulder pain is quite common, with millions of people suffering from it worldwide. One common cause of shoulder pain is a SLAP lesion, which stands for Superior Labrum Anterior-Posterior. A SLAP lesion is a tear or injury to the shoulder’s labrum, a fibrous tissue ring surrounding the socket that helps keep the ball of the upper arm bone in place. While it can be a normal part of the aging process, it can also be caused by an acute injury such as a fall, a car accident, or a sport’s injury. In this blog post, we will take a closer look at when a shoulder SLAP lesion requires immediate attention.
Persistent Pain
If you have shoulder pain that lasts for days and doesn’t respond to rest or home treatment methods like ice, you should seek professional help. Shoulder pain due to a SLAP lesion, or SLAP Tear, may feel deep, dull, or even like burning. The intensity of the pain will vary, but persistent pain is a clear indication that something is wrong and requires immediate attention from a chiropractor or physiotherapist. A medical professional will be able to determine if you have a SLAP lesion and discuss the best course of treatment to relieve the pain.
Weakness or Instability
Another critical symptom of SLAP lesions that require immediate attention is weakness or instability in the shoulder. The SLAP lesion can weaken your shoulder muscles, making it challenging to move your arm in certain directions. You may also experience instability, especially when doing activities requiring overhead movements. These symptoms are concerning and could indicate a more severe underlying condition; therefore, it is crucial to consult a healthcare professional immediately.
Arm Numbness or Tingling
If your shoulder pain is not only limited to the shoulder and has progressed to your arm, you must seek professional help immediately. Numbness, tingling, or pain that radiates from the shoulder down to the arm could indicate nerve involvement. Nerve involvement from a SLAP lesion can be incredibly painful and may lead to partial paralysis if not treated promptly.
Difficulty Sleeping
A SLAP lesion can cause discomfort and make it difficult to sleep. If you have trouble getting comfortable or experience pain while lying on your affected side, you need to see a chiropractor or physiotherapist. The loss of sleep could lead to other health problems, and the shoulder’s condition may also worsen if left untreated.
Limited Mobility
If you have difficulty moving your shoulder, you need to see a medical professional immediately. A SLAP lesion can affect the range of motion in your shoulder, making everyday tasks like reaching for things difficult. Limited mobility is a cause for concern and could worsen if you don’t address it immediately.
While not all SLAP lesions require immediate attention, some do, as outlined in this blog. If you experience persistent pain, weakness or instability, arm numbness or tingling, difficulty sleeping, or limited mobility, you should seek professional help immediately. A chiropractor or physiotherapist will be able to determine the best course of treatment for you and offer the peace of mind that comes with controlling your shoulder pain and ensure a seamless recovery. Remember, the longer you wait, the more prolonged your healing process may become.
If you have any questions or would like to explore further, please book a free, no-charge online appointment with either myself, Nitin Nair, BPT, R/TRO DIP, PT, or another Kitchener physiotherapist at CARESPACE. We are happy to listen and are here to help!
