What Are the Non-Surgical Treatment Options for a SLAP Tear?

Sometimes shoulder injuries feel like they appear out of nowhere. One moment you’re reaching overhead during a gym session or lifting groceries, and the next you’re wondering why your shoulder clicks or feels unstable. If your doctor mentions a SLAP lesion, the name alone can sound worrying. But here’s the comforting truth: not every SLAP lesion requires surgery. Many people manage it well with non-invasive care, especially with the help of a sports orthopaedic specialist who understands our active lifestyles and daily habits.

So What Exactly Are We Dealing With?

A SLAP lesion affects the ring of cartilage that sits around the shoulder socket. When this part gets irritated or torn, it can make everyday movements feel stiff, weak, or just strangely off. People in Singapore who swim, climb, or play tennis tend to hear this term more often because overhead movements really put the shoulder to work. But the good news is that your shoulder can recover, and non-surgical care is often the first and most effective step.

Starting with the Basics: Rest and Activity Changes

Rest sounds almost too simple, yet it plays a big part in letting your shoulder settle. Think of it like letting a noisy fan cool down before you take a closer look. You’re not slacking off; you’re reducing irritation so healing has space to begin.

This usually means adjusting your routine for a while. Maybe you ease off from pull-ups or pause those intense paddle sessions at Sentosa. A sports orthopaedic in Singapore will often tell you not to stop moving completely because gentle mobility keeps the joint from stiffening up.

Physiotherapy: The Backbone of SLAP Tear Recovery

Physiotherapy is where most people start seeing real change. A good rehab programme strengthens the rotator cuff, stabilises the shoulder blade, and retrains muscles that support the joint. You’ll find exercises that look tiny but work surprisingly hard, such as external rotations or scapular control drills.

Progress comes in small but satisfying steps. Week by week, those deep shoulder stabilisers wake up, and the joint begins to feel more balanced. Local physiotherapists often explain things with everyday analogies too. One might say, “Think of your shoulder like a team. If one player’s sleeping, the whole team struggles.” And you can’t help but smile because it’s true.

Beyond recovery, physio also teaches prevention. Once the joint stabilises, you’ll pick up habits that help you avoid future flare-ups, especially if your SLAP lesion came from sports or repetitive work tasks.

When Movement Still Feels Uncomfortable

Some days, the shoulder just gets grumpy. That’s where medication plays a short-term supporting role. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs help settle pain so you can continue rehab effectively. Ice packs also work well, especially after physio or long days at the computer.

Medication isn’t meant to mask the problem forever. It simply makes the rest of the recovery journey more manageable.

Corticosteroid Injections for Targeted Relief

Corticosteroid injections aren’t always necessary, but they’re useful when pain slows you down even after trying rest and rehab. A small dose placed directly at the irritated spot can reduce inflammation and give you relief. Most people use this window to rebuild strength and stability.

A sports orthopaedic in Singapore typically recommends injections only when symptoms make progress difficult. They’re not a long-term fix, just a helpful nudge forward.

Lifestyle Tweaks That Actually Matter

It’s surprising just how much your daily habits influence recovery. Poor sleep makes pain feel sharper. Long computer hours stiffen the upper back. Even carrying a heavy shoulder bag each day can throw things off. Simple changes help more than you’d think. Switching to a backpack. Stretching during lunch breaks. Sleeping on the opposite side. They seem minor, but they support healing in the background.

When Does Surgery Come Into the Picture?

Here’s the reassuring part. Surgery isn’t the first choice for most people dealing with a SLAP lesion. Many recover fully with the right non-surgical approach. But if the shoulder keeps feeling unstable or symptoms linger despite consistent effort, your doctor may discuss arthroscopic repair. Until then, non-surgical care remains your main focus.

Conclusion

Managing a SLAP lesion can feel overwhelming, but with structured rehab, a little patience, and the guidance of a sports orthopaedic in Singapore, most people regain shoulder strength without surgery. If you’d like to explore your treatment options or understand your shoulder better, contact Dr Bryan Tan today.