A type IV SLAP tear is a shoulder injury involving the superior labrum from anterior to posterior (hence, SLAP). In type IV, not only is the labrum torn, but the tear extends into the long head of the biceps tendon, which is partially or fully split along with the labrum. This makes it more complex and unstable than types I–III, and often more symptomatic. Anatomically, the glenoid labrum is a ring of fibrocartilage that deepens the socket of the glenoid to help stabilise the humeral head. The l

A SLAP tear is a tear of tissue that is located on top of the shoulder. SLAP stands for “Superior Labrum Anterior Posterior.” The shoulder is a ball and socket joint, similar to a golf ball on a tee. A rim of tissue called the labrum surrounds the socket like a bumper on a pool table. The recovery after rotator cuff surgery is requires a delicate balance between allowing the shoulder to heal without letting it get too stiff. Typically, rehabilitation therapy will start the first week or two afte